Ahmad Shabery urges ATI graduates to be transformation agents

Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek called on Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) graduates to be agents in the transformation of the agricultural sector.

He said as the new hope in the government's efforts to transform the agricultural sector, ATI graduates should be bold in taking risks to shift the paradigm that the field is only meant for the older generation.

"The current trend shows that only 15 per cent of those aged 40 and below are in the agricultural sector.., which implies that the youths still have the notion that the field is not for them but for older people.

"But with commitment from the government, skills training and enthusiasm, I believe the youth particularly ATI graduates could change the landscape by choosing agriculture to be their main endeavour," he said.

He was speaking at the 5th ATI Convocation during which 1,296 youths received their diplomas and certificates, at the Agro Tourism Park here today.