By Zareef Muzammil
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 — Selangor is actively exploring new technologies to empower the modern agriculture sector, ensuring its stable food supply.
State executive councillor for investment Ng Sze Han said the commitment to advancing the agricultural industry via cutting-edge technologies will ensure higher yields to meet the population’s needs.
“Modern agriculture is a key focus of the state government. We need to further enhance modern farming practices through the use of new technologies, especially in light of challenges like climate change, labour shortages, and limited land resources,” he said during the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) 2023 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today.
Meanwhile, the massive participation of foreign food and beverage companies, which account for 33 per cent of the over 1,000 exhibitors at this year’s SIBS, is a promising development to promote the sector.
“By collaborating with foreign countries like China, Taiwan, Uganda, and Indonesia, we are not only reliant on one or two nations for food supplies but can diversify our sources.
“Malaysian agricultural entrepreneurs can also share their experiences in modern farming,” Ng said.
Earlier, he witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Invest Selangor Bhd (Invest Selangor) and Universiti Putra Malaysia, aimed at advancing Selangor’s biotechnology sector.
Invest Selangor was represented by its chief executive officer Datuk Hasan Azhari Idris, and UPM by its deputy vice-chancellor (academic and international), Prof Ismi Arif Ismail.
In a statement, the state investment promotion agency said the collaboration is in line with the Selangor Biotechnology Action Plan (SBAP), focusing on several key areas like medical and healthcare, agriculture, as well as industries and environment subsectors.
“This collaboration signifies our readiness to play a crucial role in positioning Selangor as an attractive investment destination for those looking to enter the biotechnology landscape,” it said.
