M’sia, India in talks over rice issue

The shortage of white rice in Malaysia has prompted the country to hold talks with Indian representatives in an effort to overcome export restrictions. Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu revealed that representatives from India were sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue on a government-to-government (G2G) basis. Hoping that this meeting will help address the current supply shortage, Mohamad made this announcement during a press conference following his visit to Felcra’s Ladang Kekal Pengeluaran Benih Padi. He further reminded the public to purchase rice according to their needs and avoid panicking. Bernama quoted him as saying, “If you need two bags of rice monthly, just buy two packets. We can control the supplies in the market.”

In order to address the long-term rice supply issue, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security plans to expand the Large-Scale Smart Padi Field (SBB Smart) programme in Felcra settlements located in Kedah, Kelantan, Kedah, and Pahang. Additionally, the ministry intends to discuss the development of more padi fields with the governments of Sarawak and Sabah to ensure sufficient and balanced rice supplies. Mohamad acknowledged that local rice production is insufficient and stressed the importance of increasing yields to meet the country’s needs. He stated, “We will try to find ways to do it. If we can get it done in several large-scale areas, we can fulfill the country’s needs.” Mohamad also mentioned ongoing discussions between the Federal Government and the Sabah government regarding expanding padi fields.

However, one of the issues faced in Sabah is related to irrigation. Mohamad estimated that it would cost billions of ringgit to address this matter, but emphasized the prioritization of food security, stating, “But for food security, I feel we need to spend on it (irrigation).” With approximately 20,234 hectares of land available in Sabah for padi cultivation, efforts to address irrigation challenges are essential.