THE Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) is optimistic that padi production from the Muda area can meet at least 40% of the country’s needs despite having to face uncertain weather conditions.

MADA general manager’s office said it expected that with a current estimated average gross yield of 5.30 tonnes per hectare, padi production for the 2/2021 season should be 553,631 tonnes.

“The yield is expected to be more than 30.6% compared to padi production for the 2/2020 season which only achieved an output of 408,724 tonnes,” said the statement.

It said for the padi planting activities for the 2/2021 season, as of yesterday, 71% of padi crops were ready to be harvested in the Muda area. The estimated average yield is 5.30 tonnes per hectare.

“Padi that is ready for harvesting in the Muda area is expected to reach 90% by mid-March. Therefore, MADA will continue to monitor the progress of activities until the end of the 2/2021 season,” the statement said.

The statement also said MADA dams have registered comfortable levels of water, with Pedu Dam at 81.6%, Muda Dam 76.4% and Ahning Dam 92.8%. – Bernama, February 17, 2022.