KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 — The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (MAFS) is focusing on the redevelopment of idle padi fields, to enhance the national rice self-sufficiency ratio (SSR).
Its minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the ministry has identified several areas of idle rice fields in Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, and Johor, for this initiative.
“According to last year’s statistics, the SSR reached only 56.2 per cent, necessitating continued rice imports. We must consider what would happen if, one day, other countries cease their rice exports.
“In light of the current geopolitical tensions and unpredictable weather patterns, the potential for export restrictions cannot be dismissed,” he said during the National Water Consumers Group Convention today.
He further noted that one of the reasons for the significant number of idle padi fields is the migration of rural residents and the declining interest among the younger generation in padi cultivation.
Meanwhile, Mohamad reiterated that MAFS will not interfere in the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) investigation of the National Farmers’ Organisation (Nafas).
He said the ministry will provide full cooperation and any necessary assistance required by the MACC during this investigation.
“I want to assure everyone there is no need to worry about Nafas operations during this suspension. The organisation will continue to be managed by a team of skilled administrators,” he said.
On October 29, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed the agency had launched an investigation into irregularities and leaks, related to the padi fertiliser supply project of an agency under the ministry.
On November 1, Amir Matamin, the director-general of the Farmers’ Organisation Authority, announced that Nafas’ constitution had been suspended, effective immediately, to enhance the organisation’s governance and management.
— Bernama
