KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 18 — Almost RM1 billion has been allocated to kickstart the five-season padi planting project within two years, under Phase 1 of the Muda Agricultural Development Authority, covering nearly 11,000ha, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He added that the initiative aims to boost rice yields by 15 per cent, while increasing the income of 6,100 padi farmers by 43 per cent.
“The rice management efforts in Sekinchan, Sabak Bernam, have demonstrated the potential to produce up to 12 tonnes of rice per hectare,” he said.
“The government will start a pilot project to obtain fertilisers, including organic fertilisers, according to the rice cultivation area, through an open tender,” he said when presenting Budget 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, emphasised that the welfare of padi farmers and fishermen will be ensured, with RM2.78 billion allocated for subsidies, assistance, and incentives — an increase from RM2.6 billion.
Anwar said RM 300 million was also allocated to the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, for agricultural collaborations with state governments next year, doubling the RM150 million provided this year.
He explained that the funds would support initiatives such as onion cultivation in Perak, red tilapia farming in Pahang, and efforts to boost rice yields in Negeri Sembilan.
“The government, in partnership with private entities, will utilise nearly 3,561ha of idle land, under the regional development authorities and their network agencies, for agricultural projects, including organic chicken and cattle farming,” he said.
He said among the nation’s significant weaknesses is its dependence on food imports, despite having fertile land and the capacity to enhance food security.
— Bernama
