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KOTA BELUD: Agriculture has long been overlooked by younger generations, with many Sabahan graduates opting for city office jobs rather than taking an active role in managing their family or inheritance lands.

By inspiring young leaders in Sabah to rediscover the vast potential of the agriculture sector, the Sabah Young Business and Industry Leaders group (SYBIL) aims to assist the State Government to create a sustainable future for both food security and the local economy.

In an interview during the Maize Harvesting Open Day at Kampung Bobot, Kota Belud, Project Director Datuk Seri Raymond Tan Shu Kiah highlighted the critical role youth can play in this transformation.

"I truly believe young people have a lot to contribute. You are part of a generation where Wi-Fi and the internet are at your fingertips. My question to you is: how are you using these resources?"

He continued, stressing the importance of understanding the current global landscape: "The problem is that many young people take for granted that food will always be available.

"Look at the geopolitical climate today—conflict and war lead to famine, and climate change is impacting our crops and agricultural output. These challenges highlight the urgent need to focus on food security."

According to Tan, the younger generation must develop a deeper interest in agriculture, not just for profit, but for the knowledge of where food truly comes from.

"Once you understand that, you’ll naturally develop a genuine interest in the field," he said.

Iwase Takamichi, a young lawyer who serves as the Farm Manager at Kampung Bobot, manages the farm’s daily operations.

When asked to give inspiration to other young potential agropreneurs, he shared: “It’s hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding because it’s real. You see your efforts unfold in front of you, and it’s gratifying. Every decision you make impacts your harvest, and when things go well, it’s a reflection of your dedication.”

SYBIL President Datuk Ar. James Wong shared the vision of strengthening Sabah’s food security, stating: “To secure our future, we must invest in our infrastructure to unlock the potential of underutilised land.

"We also need policies that encourage young people to create value, work hard, and contribute to a self-sufficient, export-driven economy.”

Echoing this sentiment, SugarBun Group of Companies Managing Director, Datuk Joseph Ambrose Lee emphasised three key sectors for economic growth: Agriculture, tourism, oil and gas.

“Nobody in Sabah is landless,” he said. “Yet, many young Sabahan natives leave their hometowns without realising that they are walking away from acres of valuable land that could be the foundation of their wealth.”

SYBIL’s mission is to empower young Sabahan agropreneurs, especially those already interested in agriculture, by introducing them to the concept of modern farming.

This initiative is part of their larger vision to foster a new generation of sustainable agricultural leaders who will be key players in strengthening food security.

Tan also emphasised the importance of collaboration for these initiatives to succeed.

“With this pilot project, we are sharing valuable knowledge and information. We need more young people to step up, collaborate, and support these efforts. Your background doesn’t limit you—look at me. I’m a lawyer, but I’m also a farmer. Agriculture can lead to immense success, often in ways you don’t initially realise.”

He concluded: “My future plans involve expanding maize production and tackling food security challenges in Sabah. I want more young people from SYBIL to join me in these efforts!”