Kota Kinabalu: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is focused on transforming the national rice and padi industry this year by prioritizing sustainability, competitiveness, and environmental friendliness approach.
Its Deputy Minister, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the reform is not only aimed at ensuring the self-sufficiency of local rice and padi supplies but also at elevating the industry to a higher level.
Advertisement“Rice is not just a staple food for us; it is also deeply connected to the customs, culture, and hearts of the people of Sabah,” he said
However, Arthur said that currently Sabah facing a less-than-satisfactory situation, as the Self-Sufficiency Ratio (SSR) for rice and padi remains low compared to other states.
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Arthur said the measures are being implemented gradually, taking into account various challenges in the rice and padi value chain as well as the need for comprehensive governance reforms.
Advertisement“One of the key aspects of this reform includes the development of new padi granaries in Sabah and Sarawak. I believe the governments of Sabah and Sarawak welcome and fully support the ministry’s vision to boost domestic rice production.
“In addition, we are strengthening irrigation infrastructure both within and outside the paddy granary areas. Paddy-growing regions need to be prioritized for infrastructure and irrigation improvements.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“This is one of KPKM’s focus areas in the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) to ensure the availability of irrigation systems in padi farming areas nationwide, including in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.
Arthur also said KPKM will focus on the redevelopment of abandoned rice fields.
“All these are crucial steps to ensure the successful reform of the rice and padi industry ecosystem. This initiative is not only aimed at increasing productivity and industry competitiveness but also at safeguarding the welfare of farmers and the well-being of consumers.
“I am confident that the reform measures we have planned and mobilized in close collaboration with MAFFI will further enhance rice productivity and SSR, ultimately establishing Sabah as the country’s second rice granary,” he said.
