Rice planting in Kedah's Kawasan Muda unaffected by hot, dry conditions, says Mada

ALOR SETAR: According to the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada), despite the prevailing hot and dry conditions, particularly in Kedah, rice planting activities in Kawasan Muda have remained largely unaffected.

In a statement Sunday (Feb 18), Mada indicated that padi planting for Season 2/2023 has reached 99.3% completion, covering an area of 100,011ha.

“The flowering stage covers approximately 80.3% of the planted area, equivalent to 80,831ha, with 38% of crops already matured on 38,282ha,” it said.

“Additionally, 12.1% of the padi fields, totaling 12,208ha, have already been harvested,” it added.

Despite the dry weather conditions, Mada reassures the public that the water levels at key reservoirs remain adequate to meet irrigation demands for the ongoing season.

The water reservoirs crucial for sustaining agricultural endeavours in the region, namely Pedu Dam, Muda Dam, and Ahning Dam, show comfortable levels at 71.71%, 72.80%, and 93.96%, respectively.

Moreover, despite a lower recorded rainfall of 12mm in Kawasan Muda compared to the 20-year average of 47mm, Mada remains optimistic that this will not impede the ongoing cropping activities, projected for completion by the end of next month.

To mitigate the effects of the dry season, Mada has intensified proactive measures, leveraging reusable pump stations to optimize water conservation from the dams.

“Mada has also initiated rotational irrigation tailored to the specific needs of rice cultivation in each region based on the crop phases until Season 2/2023 is fully concluded,” it added.

Furthermore, Mada advised farmers to use water prudently to ensure efficient water distribution and minimize wastage to promote sustainable agricultural practices. – Bernama