SEREMBAN: Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias has emphasized the need to establish rice mills in Negri Sembilan in order to address the shortage of local rice supply. Jalaluddin, chairman of the state Agriculture, Food Security and Cost of Living Committee, stated that the state government must intensify efforts to cultivate padi in districts like Kuala Pilah, Jelebu, Jempol, and Gemas as part of a long-term strategy.
“I have requested for the implementation of additional food security programs, particularly for rice, as well as essential items such as sugar, cooking oil, and others over the next two to five years. It is imperative that we have sufficient food reserves. Consequently, the state government recognizes the importance of establishing rice mills to provide affordable rice for the people of the state,” he informed reporters during the state-level launch of the Fit Malaysia 2023 Tour in Bandar Sri Sendayan on Sunday (Sept 10).
The senior executive councillor mentioned that his committee will present a master plan on food security programs for the state, involving the cooperation of various departments and agencies, as an initial step to address the issue of food supply. He also stated that this planning includes the provision of basic food items such as cooking oil, sugar, flour, meat, and chicken, as well as the rehabilitation of abandoned land and agricultural areas that require financial assistance from the state government.
Jalaluddin further highlighted that this matter is also a key performance indicator (KPI) for the department heads under his supervision. “I do not wish to hear complaints from the people of the state regarding insufficient supply, exorbitant prices, or subpar quality,” he stressed. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
