Agriculture ministry ready to face El Nino effects on agro-food sector

The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is prepared to implement various strategies to lessen the impact of the El Nino phenomenon on the agro-food sector, particularly on the padi and rice sub-sector. Deputy Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup stated that the ministry’s agencies, such as Mada, Kada, and Iada, are taking steps to address the issue. Measures include ensuring adequate water supply in plantation areas by distributing pumps to farmers, constructing tube wells, repairing pump houses, and enhancing drainage systems.

In cases where necessary, the ministry is ready to conduct cloud seeding in collaboration with relevant agencies to increase rainfall over water catchment areas for rice cultivation. This was mentioned in response to a query posed by Datuk Siti Aminah Aching regarding the government’s actions to combat the El Nino phenomenon and support provided to farmers during a parliamentary session on Monday (March 11).

For farmers facing reduced rice production due to unexpected weather fluctuations, they can apply for cash aid through the Rice Crop Disaster Fund by submitting an application to the Agriculture Department in their district and state. Assistance amounts to RM876 per hectare for crops aged 1-70 days and RM1,800 for those aged 71-120 days, with a maximum of three hectares per planting season.

The Agriculture Department will assess the damage, verify the application as per standard procedures, and forward it to the ministry’s main committee for consideration. Additionally, Kurup mentioned that the Rice Crop Takaful Scheme, designed to compensate farmers for losses from natural disasters and disease outbreaks, is still in the planning phase and is anticipated to be launched on April 1.

Overall, the ministry is committed to supporting farmers affected by the El Nino phenomenon by providing necessary assistance and implementing measures to protect the agro-food sector. By working together with relevant agencies and introducing initiatives like the Rice Crop Takaful Scheme, they aim to mitigate the challenges faced by farmers due to weather uncertainties.

Efforts such as distributing pumps, constructing tube wells, and conducting cloud seeding demonstrate the government’s proactive approach in safeguarding the agricultural industry. Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of the available support systems like the Rice Crop Disaster Fund to address any losses incurred and maintain sustainable farming practices.

As the agriculture sector navigates through the impacts of El Nino, it is crucial for stakeholders to collaborate effectively and adapt swiftly to changing environmental conditions. By leveraging technology and resources, Malaysian farmers can withstand challenges posed by weather variations and continue contributing to the nation’s food security and economic well-being.

With these comprehensive measures in place, the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry aims to strengthen the resilience of the agro-food sector and ensure the sustainable growth of rice cultivation in Malaysia. Through a combination of support programs and infrastructure enhancements, they strive to empower farmers to overcome obstacles and thrive amidst evolving climatic conditions.

In conclusion, the commitment of the ministry to address the impact of the El Nino phenomenon underscores the importance of preserving agricultural stability and food security in the country. By implementing timely interventions and providing financial aid to affected farmers, they aim to safeguard the livelihoods of those in the padi and rice sub-sector and uphold the nation’s agricultural resilience.