@ AGROBiz | July-August . 2024

Tambunan enhancing rural tourism by integrating local agriculture into the experience

The association , led by President Patricia Philip Kitingan , is focused on integrating tourism with local agriculture to boost the rural economy .

Also , the Secretary General of the Federation of Rural Tourism Associations of Sabah , Kitingan , is championing a transformative approach to agritourism that seeks to harmonise community , agriculture , and tourism .

Established in 2015 , its official operations began in 2016 , and the TTA aims to promote community-based tourism . Under Kitingan ’ s leadership , the association has highlighted Tambunan ’ s agricultural assets , including its renowned ginger and mulberry wine .

“ The TTA works closely with the Sabah Tourism Board to ensure there ’ s a focus on enhancing rural tourism by integrating local agriculture into the tourism experience ,” said Kitingan .

“ We aim to empower our community by showcasing their agricultural products and utilising their land effectively to attract visitors ,”

In recent years , the growth of agritourism in Sabah has been notable . Patricia highlights that agritourism offers a unique opportunity for rural communities to benefit from both agriculture and tourism .

“ Our goal is to help these communities maximise their land ’ s potential and provide visitors with a memorable experience that also supports local economies .”

Despite the positive strides , Kitingan notes that there are areas needing improvement . She emphasised the importance of government support in upgrading infrastructure and facilities to enhance the overall tourist experience .

Patricia Philip Kitingan with the Tambunan produced mulberry wine .

“ We need better amenities and improved infrastructure to make rural areas more accessible and appealing to visitors . Enhanced facilities , such as well-maintained toilets and better roads , are crucial for attracting more tourists and ensuring their comfort .”

The SAEX 2024 provided a platform for such discussions and showcased the strides made in the sector . Kitingan reflects on the event with optimism , noting that this year ’ s expo has been particularly successful .

“ The response has been very positive , even better than pre- Covid times . People are eager to engage and explore post-pandemic opportunities .”

Looking ahead , Kitingan hopes for increased participation from other districts and more diverse products in future expos .

Kitingan wishes : “ It would be great to see more districts involved and a wider range of products showcased . This will not only enhance the event but also provide a more comprehensive view of Sabah ’ s agritourism potential .”

As the TTA continues to push for growth in rural tourism , Kitingan remains hopeful for the future . “ We have so much to offer , and with continued support and improvements , we can transform rural areas into thriving hubs of tourism and community development .”

Kitingan ’ s vision is clear : by bridging the gap between agriculture and tourism , the TTA is not just promoting local products but also fostering a more sustainable and inclusive approach to rural development .

IN THE dynamic realm of agricultural machinery , where tradition and modernity often converge , Dong Ma Enterprise Sdn Bhd ( Dong Ma ) stands as a testament to the region ’ s evolving agricultural landscape .

With its rich history spanning over three generations , founded in the late 1970s , this family-owned business has evolved under the stewardship of its founder ’ s descendants , each bringing their unique vision to the company .

Today , Melvin Tee , the thirdgeneration director , carries forward the legacy with a firm commitment to innovation and quality .

Dong Ma Enterprise , based in Sabah , has been a cornerstone in the supply of industrial , home-based , and agricultural machinery . With a heritage that stretches back to 1979 , the company has consistently adapted to meet the needs of its diverse clientele .

At this year ’ s Sabah Agro Expo 2024 ( S AEX 2024 ), Dong Ma showcased its latest offerings , including advanced water pumps and sprayer systems designed for both industrial and home use .

Melvin , who has been at the helm for the past two years , reflected on the company ’ s journey and the evolution of the agriculture sector in Sabah .

“ Joining the expo each year is a way for us to stay connected with the latest developments and to share our advancements with the community ,” he explained .

This year ’ s event was particularly noteworthy for Melvin , who observed a marked shift in focus towards agriculture , a sector that has gained prominence post-pandemic .

According to Melvin , the growth in Sabah ’ s agriculture sector has been impressive .

“ The interest in agriculture has surged significantly since the MCO ( Movement Control Order ), with many turning to home-based and DIY agricultural solutions .

“ This shift has not only revitalised the local economy but also opened new avenues for businesses .

Melvin expressed his aspiration to witness even more significant developments in the agricultural sector in the future .

He advocates for increased awareness and adoption of modern agricultural technologies among Sabah ’ s rural communities .

“ Many still rely on traditional methods , but there are now numerous technological solutions that can make farming more efficient ,” he said .

Dong Ma also plans to expand its outreach , bringing its innovative machinery directly to rural areas to demonstrate how these tools can

Melvin Tee photographed with his mother , former Director of Dong Ma Enterprise .

enhance agricultural productivity .

As Dong Ma continues to bridge the past with the future , Melvin ’ s vision reflects a blend of respect for tradition and a drive for progress . The company ’ s presence at the expo is more than just a display of its products ; it ’ s a testament to its ongoing commitment to advancing agriculture in Sabah , ensuring that innovation and tradition move forward hand in hand .

“ Sabah has the potential to develop alongside major urban centres like Kuala Lumpur . We ’ re not just ‘ kampung ’ people ; we ’ re capable of significant growth and innovation .” – @ AGROBiz