YAN, July 17 — The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (MAFS) will streamline matters and procedures to expedite the production of hybrid paddy seed varieties to help increase yields.
Its deputy minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said they are continually seeking ways to enhance the efficiency of rice production, in line with the National Agrofood Policy and the target of achieving an 80 per cent rice self-sufficiency rate by 2030.
“We will hold discussions with Koyan Utama Sdn Bhd (KUSB), relevant agencies and departments under MAFS, and researchers from China at the end of this month to introduce new hybrid paddy seeds aimed at increasing the rice planting cycle to four times a year.
“Based on these discussions, we will determine the next steps... but we want to make the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) the pioneer for this project as Kedah is predominantly a rice-producing state. Therefore, it is appropriate that we choose Mada for the test plot of the project," he told the press today.
Earlier, Arthur presented over RM1.1 million in grants to 61 Mada entrepreneurs selected through three program scopes: Change Upgrade Product, the Young Agropreneur Grant, and Agrofood Mechanisation and Automation.
Previously, KUSB chairman Ammar Hassan said his company, in collaboration with a Chinese company, will soon launch a pilot project to plant hybrid paddy four times a year in Perlis and Kedah.
Based on the project's study, the initiative could yield between eight and 10 tonnes of rice per hectare, thereby boosting rice production in the country and increasing farmers' incomes.
Meanwhile, when asked about the use of unregistered pesticides by some farmers and gardeners, Arthur said that the Department of Agriculture is monitoring and enforcing this, as the use of pesticides on food products directly impacts consumer safety.
“The ministry also plays a role in ensuring food safety. We want to make sure that all food items are safe for consumption. If any parties violate regulations or laws related to consumer safety, they can be prosecuted.
“As for pesticides, there is a registration procedure which includes laboratory studies, safety studies, and so on. Only those certified as safe will be given certificates and approval for use,” he said.
— Bernama
