Mat Sabu: Govt vows to decrease reliance on imported food supply.

TANAH MERAH: The government will remain committed to reducing reliance on imported food supply to ensure a balanced production with the country’s own resources, according to Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. He stated that this effort aligns with the National Agrofood Policy 2021-2030 (NAP 2.0), aimed at improving income growth for food producers and enhancing their quality of life.

Mohamad Sabu also mentioned the progress in addressing the supply of eggs and rice. With countries like India and Vietnam reducing their rice exports to meet domestic demand, the government is taking steps to ensure sufficient supply. For example, they are investing RM3 billion in infrastructure, including the development of an irrigation system and roads in Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA), to support large-scale rice planting seasons over two years.

The minister made these remarks during his visit to the Group Maize Farming Project in Kampong Paloh. He elaborated that the project, covering 32 hectares, was initiated in 2007 through the establishment of a cooperative to cultivate various crops, including maize, long beans, pumpkins, and yams. The project has received guidance and RM201,245 in allocations since 2014, which have been utilized for area preparation, irrigation systems, and agricultural inputs. The Kelantan Department of Agriculture has also provided monitoring and advisory services, particularly in relation to diseases and pests.

Local farmers in the area, such as Noraini Mat Nor and Rosli Abd Ghani, have expressed their gratitude for the government’s efforts in reducing dependence on imported food supplies. Noraini highlighted the potential employment opportunities for the local population, especially the youth, in the agriculture sector. Rosli emphasized the importance of continuously improving and maintaining irrigation systems and infrastructure facilities in rice fields nationwide.

The government’s commitment to promoting self-sufficiency in food production aims to enhance the country’s food security and the well-being of its agricultural stakeholders, while also creating economic opportunities for the local population. – Bernama