State committed on rural economic empowerment through SMJ plan

Published on: Friday, May 30, 2025
Published on: Fri, May 30, 2025 Text Size: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor accompanied Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the state-level Kaamatan Festival launch at Hongkod Koisaan Hall, Penampang, on Friday The Sabah state government remains committed to strengthening rural socio-economic development through strategic approaches such as agricultural modernisation, promotion of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and community-based tourism. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor said these efforts are key pillars under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan aimed at ensuring inclusive and comprehensive well-being for the people. 'Rural communities must continue to be given economic opportunities through modern agriculture, community tourism, or skills training not only to boost income but also to reduce poverty in Sabah,' he said. He said this during the State-level Kaamatan Festival 2025 officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today. Hajiji also highlighted plans to reactivate the Sabah Paddy and Rice Board to support food security, targeting a 30pc rice self-sufficiency level by next year and 60pc by 2030. He stressed that close cooperation with the Federal Government is essential to drive development policies effectively and ensure that Sabahans benefit directly. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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