DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER I, ACTING MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FOOD INDUSTRY SABAH

The Honorable Minister (YBM) began the address by highlighting the issue of food security, which is frequently discussed in various media platforms, including social media and electronic channels. As a Ministry responsible for food sustainability, MAFFI takes these issues seriously. In response to this, the Sabah State Cabinet has established two committees: the "Sabah State Food Security Cabinet Committee," chaired by the Chief Minister of Sabah, and the "Food Security Task Force Committee," established under the supervision of MAFFI, with YB Deputy Chief Minister 1, also the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry of Sabah, serving as the chairman of this task force.

To further solidify the functions, objectives, and roles of the ministry in addressing current food security issues, the ministry's name has been changed to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry of Sabah. This renaming aligns with the federal-level change of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

During this event, in addition to delivering the address, YBM also announced the achievements of departments and agencies under the Ministry in terms of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) initiatives. Overall, YBM expressed satisfaction with the achievements of the SMJ initiatives by each department and agency under the ministry. YBM also highlighted the achievements of several departments and agencies under the ministry, including SSL for achieving 100% in the fisheries sector and the production of various fruit varieties such as avocado, tarap, and pineapples.

YBM also addressed the current challenges faced, including recent flooding events affecting the agriculture and fisheries sectors and natural phenomena such as high tides that cause damage due to climate change. Additionally, financial constraints and capacity limitations in terms of expertise and skills were mentioned, which could impact programs, projects, and targets outlined. YBM emphasized the commitment of every department and agency to efficiently and effectively execute plans, policies, and programs, reflecting not only the government's image but also the image of public service itself.

YBM also touched on the digital economy and the extent of digitalization implemented by the ministry, as digitalization can enhance the capacity to implement programs under the ministry. The ministry, departments, and agencies are expected to be proactive and collaborative in addressing issues, especially in uncertain economic times. Existing cooperation between ministries, departments, state agencies, and federal agencies in Sabah will be strengthened.

The role of civil servants in the government is crucial in achieving development agendas and programs. Civil servants are responsible for implementing government policies to ensure the welfare of the people. YBM emphasized that every civil servant under this ministry should embody integrity, credibility, and high commitment in carrying out their duties, always mindful and avoiding conflicts of interest that may lead to various speculations.

In conclusion, YBM expressed pride in MAFFI's achievements, reaching a satisfactory performance of 92%, while acknowledging areas for improvement. Recognition may be given to departments and agencies that have demonstrated outstanding performance in the future. The event concluded with YBM's hope that ministerial address ceremonies like this can ignite the spirit, determination, and commitment of civil servants to collectively lead the transformation towards higher achievements in agriculture, fisheries, and livestock.

Finally, YBM congratulated the Sabah Rubber Industry Board for successfully obtaining Forest Management Certification for the rubber category from the Forest Stewardship Council, the first in Malaysia. YBM stated that this achievement reflects the challenge and responsibility of environmental stewardship, marking a historic milestone for the rubber sector in Malaysia.