KOTA KINABALU: The coffee industry in Sabah’s interior, especially in Nabawan and Sook, is set for a major transformation, thanks to support from the Federal Government and the Sabah Agriculture Department.
Aiming to boost the local coffee sector and elevate its potential to international markets, Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the government has committed RM3.37mil in funding for several key projects.
The announcement came as part of a strategic initiative to promote downstream processing and increase the production and value of coffee grown in the region.
At the heart of these efforts is the development of the Coffee House and Café Coffeelive at the Sepulut Agricultural Station in Nabawan, a project with an allocation of RM2.24mil aimed at providing a much-needed space for local coffee farmers to process their products and promote coffee culture in Sabah.
Additionally, RM1.13mil will be allocated to upgrade the coffee collection centre in Nabawan, further strengthening the supply chain and making it easier for farmers to access markets.
“The coffee industry in Sabah has vast untapped potential, and with the support of the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, we aim to make Nabawan and Sook key players in Malaysia’s coffee scene,” said Kurup, who officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the new facilities on Tuesday (Nov 26).
According to data from the Sabah Department of Agriculture, coffee production in the state remains relatively low, with only 35% self-sufficiency as of 2022.
Currently, only 1,434.2 ha of land are cultivated with coffee, yielding a modest 936.1 tonnes annually.
However, Nabawan and Sook contribute 26.5% of the state’s coffee output, with 341.6 ha dedicated to coffee cultivation, signalling significant room for expansion.
The federal government’s intervention, with funding through the 11th and 12th Malaysia Plan, is expected to stimulate growth in the industry, not only by increasing production but also by enhancing the processing capabilities.
This, in turn, will open doors for local farmers to tap into the lucrative export market, allowing Sabah’s coffee to be enjoyed beyond local borders.
“It is not just about growing coffee, it is about creating value through downstream processing.
“By supporting the establishment of processing facilities, we aim to increase the profitability for farmers and provide job opportunities for the community, especially the youth,” Kurup added.
The newly established Coffee House and Café Coffeelive will also serve as a platform for training and developing local talent, enabling farmers to diversify their products and improve the quality of their coffee.
In addition, the government has stressed the importance of ensuring sustainability and eco-friendly practices in the management of the new facilities, with the project, expected to be completed by February 2025, set to have a far-reaching impact.
Kurup hopes the new facilities will inspire other farmers in Nabawan and Sook to embrace modern farming practices, contribute to economic growth, and improve the socio-economic status of rural communities.
“This is a step toward recognising and celebrating our unique cultural heritage. Sabah is rich in traditions and customs that should be proudly showcased to the world. By elevating our coffee industry, we are giving our farmers the opportunity to succeed and be part of a larger, global conversation,” said Kurup.
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