KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is ready to become a hub for technological advancement, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

The Chief Minister said the state was committed to developing a future-oriented economy through innovation, adding that the integration of technology and innovation was crucial for economic development in the present rapidly developing world.

"In our efforts to drive the state forward, the state government has outlined a clear vision to ensure that Sabah becomes a dynamic and competitive innovation hub in the region,” he said at the launch of the Supercharger Sabah 2024 event at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) here on Tuesday (Oct 15).

One example of this effort, he said, was the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan direction, which focuses on three main pillars namely the agricultural sector, industry, and tourism; human capital and people’s well-being; and infrastructure networks and green sustainability.

Hajiji said that in the agricultural sector, the Federal Government has allocated over RM33mil to Sabah in July to enhance food security.

“This funding is vital for optimising land use to increase agro-food product yields.

"Initiatives like the Supercharger Programme series, which primarily focus on food security, are essential in our efforts to reduce dependence on imported food supplies.

“Therefore, in line with the National Food Security Policy, Sabah aims to increase its food self-sufficiency by promoting innovation in crop production, livestock, and fisheries," he said.

The Chief Minister said, as such, Sabah should strengthen modern technology in the agricultural sector, such as smart farming and automation/mechanisation, to improve yield and product quality.

Hajiji praised the Supercharger Series programme, saying it was a strategic initiative specifically designed to drive collaboration, engagement, and knowledge sharing within the research, development, commercialisation, and innovation ecosystem.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/15/sabah-eyes-becoming-technological-hub