PENAMPANG, October 11, 2026, Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III and Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Datuk Ewon Benedick has expressed support for expanding the Agro Bestari Course organised by the Community Development Department (KEMAS) to more villages in Penampang to develop agricultural entrepreneurs and increase rural incomes.
Ewon, who is also the Member of Parliament for Penampang, said the initiative had the potential to reach more communities, particularly in the Moyog agricultural zone, which comprises numerous villages.
He said he would continue supporting the programme, including allocating appropriate funding to provide the facilities needed for its implementation.
“I am confident that the KEMAS Agro Bestari initiative can be expanded to other villages, especially in the Moyog agricultural zone, which covers many villages. I will continue to provide support and am prepared to allocate appropriate funding to provide the necessary facilities,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after officiating at the Penampang District-level Agro Bestari Course organised by KEMAS at Kampung Timpangoh Babagon here today.
In a related development, Ewon agreed to allocate funding next year for the construction of a Sahabat Komuniti Desa building in the village, following a request from local KEMAS entrepreneurs.
He said the facility could be used to conduct various KEMAS programmes and initiatives, including agricultural activities under the Agro Bestari programme.
“I have agreed to provide an allocation next year for the construction of a Sahabat Komuniti Desa building. The facility can be used for various KEMAS programmes and initiatives, including Agro Bestari, such as the programme conducted today,” he said.
Meanwhile, 20 Sahabat Komuniti Desa participants attending the course each received a hydroponic kit to help them grow crops and generate additional income.
Ewon expressed hope that the training, guidance and equipment provided would help participants establish themselves as agricultural entrepreneurs and expand their market reach.
“I hope the course and the distribution of these kits will help develop them into agricultural entrepreneurs who can market their produce not only in this village but also throughout Penampang district,” he said.
He also thanked KEMAS Penampang for selecting Kampung Timpangoh Babagon as the venue for the course, providing local residents with an opportunity to develop their skills and economic potential through the Agro Bestari programme.
-MINUTESMY
