AS we face urgent food security challenges, a more structured and visionary approach is essential. Statistics reveal an increasing reliance on imported products including chickens and eggs, with over 30% of the country’s animal protein needs imported. This situation highlights the existing vulnerabilities and the urgent need to strengthen the domestic chicken farming sector.

With the population projected to reach about 35 million by 2030, the demand for poultry products will inevitably rise. Thus, developing the domestic chicken farming industry is not only crucial for sustainability, but essential to fulfil the population’s needs.

Learning from neighbouring countries like Singapore, which have succeeded in reducing their dependence on food imports, can be beneficial. Achieving this can be made possible by enhancing agricultural and poultry farming technologies, improving productivity and skills, and positioning the nation as a formidable exporter of poultry products.

Previously reliant on imports for nearly 70% of its egg supply, Singapore is now channelling resources into developing four local egg farms, aiming for 50% self-sufficiency.

Observing Singapore’s success, with fertile land and a wealth of graduates skilled in poultry farming, the country is in a strategic position to adopt a similar model. Advancing the domestic chicken farming industry will not only diminish reliance on imported breeding chickens or parent stock, particularly from the European Union and the United States, but also reinforce the local economy.

The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry plays a pivotal role in this endeavour. Providing funding alone is insufficient, it is imperative to offer supportive infrastructure, education and opportunities to facilitate industry growth. Empowering young graduates and backing startups in poultry farming are critical for catalysing innovation and expansion.

Supporting graduates in poultry farming, coupled with providing opportunities and grants, can propel the growth of this sector. This initiative extends beyond satisfying domestic demands to creating employment opportunities, enhancing the local workforce’s skills, and ultimately fortifying the national economy.

Given its rich agricultural land and a pool of talented graduates in poultry farming, the nation is well positioned to develop its chicken farming industry, reducing dependence on imports and boosting the local economy. – January 9, 2024.

* Mahathir Mohd Rais is Bersatu Federal Territories information chief.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.