LPP plans a rice production factory to strengthen Malaysia’s food supply chain, with the Ministry of Economy agreeing in principle as certified paddy seeds are launched.
PENDANG: The Farmers’ Organisation Authority (LPP) has proposed building a rice production factory to support the country’s basic food supply.
Its chairman, Datuk Mahfuz Omar, said the Ministry of Economy has agreed in principle to the plan.
“We are identifying the location. We will open one first to ensure our food chain ecosystem is sufficient,” he told reporters.
He was speaking at the launch of the first batch of MR297 and MR315 paddy seeds at the Kedah State Farmers’ Organisation (PPNK) Paddy Seed Production Centre.
Both seed varieties have been certified by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) for widespread use.
The MR297 variety is disease-resistant and capable of high yields.
The MR315 variety is early-maturing, stable and proven to be high-performing.
Mahfuz advised farmers to use certified paddy seeds issued by government-approved plants.
“Padi seeds cannot be made by farmers themselves; they also have to buy certified seeds produced,” he said.
He added that certified seeds guarantee authenticity, crop uniformity, and protection against major paddy diseases.
PPNK is one of 15 official producers of certified paddy seeds in Malaysia with an approved production capacity of 1,000 tonnes.