Road To MAHA Labuan 2026 To Drive Food Security -- Labuan Corporation
LABUAN, July 20 (Bernama) -- Road to MAHA Labuan 2026 at the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex will serve as a catalyst for food security, agro-economic growth and sustainable agricultural development on the duty-free island.
Labuan Corporation chief executive officer Rithuan Ismail said the four-day event from July 23-26 is more than a conventional food carnival or agricultural exhibition, describing it as part of a broader economic transformation agenda for Labuan.
"It is an honour for Labuan to be selected as one of the promotional destinations ahead of the national Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism (MAHA) 2026 exhibition at MAEPS Serdang this August.
"The programme aims to strengthen food security, empower local agropreneurs, create new economic opportunities and introduce technology and innovation in the agri-food sector," he told Bernama today.
Rithuan said Labuan Corporation is targeting to increase local agri-food production capacity by more than 10 per cent as part of efforts to reduce reliance on external food supplies and build a more resilient food ecosystem.
The long-term strategy is to position Labuan as an agromarine hub, agrotourism destination and gastronomy centre by capitalising on its fisheries and seafood resources.
"We want to minimise dependence on imported food supplies so that Labuan will be better prepared to face any future supply disruptions.
"Our vision is to build a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that is modern, profitable and resilient while encouraging more young people to venture into agriculture and food production," he said.
Rithuan said the event is also expected to generate wider economic opportunities for farmers, livestock breeders, fishermen, food entrepreneurs and small businesses by providing greater market access.
He added that local products should not only be marketed within Labuan but also expand into Sabah, Sarawak, Peninsular Malaysia markets, and eventually globally.
The event is also expected to attract visitors from Sabah, Sarawak and neighbouring Brunei, further promoting Labuan as a tourism destination with strong agri-food potential.
"We hope every visitor leaves with a memorable experience and becomes an ambassador who encourages others to visit Labuan," he said.
Road to MAHA Labuan 2026 is jointly organised by the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, Federal Territories Department, and Labuan Corporation.
-- BERNAMA