THE “Gelombang Padi” initiative will be implemented this year to enhance the efficiency and resilience of the country’s padi and rice industry, according to Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu.

Through this initiative, the ministry will introduce 12 programmes that aim to be a game-changer in transforming the country’s padi and rice industry.

The programmes include the introduction of a new policy on the Certified Padi Seed Incentive programme, the rehabilitation and development of soft soil padi land, the strengthening of agricultural input supply, and the empowerment of hill padi cultivation in Sabah and Sarawak by providing provisions for the supply of agricultural inputs.

“This initiative is also expected to increase the income of food producers throughout the food chain. We aim to achieve a 100% rice self-sufficiency rate (SSR). The average rice production in the country remains insufficient, with the SSR being only 65% last year.”

“The remaining 35% is still not enough and we must prioritise efforts to increase the SSR, starting in 2024,” he said when delivering his New Year’s address to the ministry staff in Putrajaya today.

Mohamad said that this year the ministry would also focus on strengthening existing industries such as poultry and eggs, onions and pineapples.

“One of the products that could become a new source of income for the agro-food sector is pineapples. Therefore, this year, Malaysia will introduce the ‘Sekali Tanam, Tiga Kali Tuai’ concept for pineapple cultivation,” he said.

Mohamad said the emphasis on the circular economy agenda in agricultural activities, such as the use of organic fertilisers and more effective modern farming practices, needs to be enhanced to reduce the release of chemical waste.

“In addition to helping prevent pollution and reduce waste, engaging in this value-added activity can offer additional income opportunities for agro-food entrepreneurs,” he said. – Bernama, January 16, 2024.