Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is currently in the final stages of drafting a bill aimed at regulating quality standards, distribution chains, and ensuring the stability of fertiliser supplies in the domestic market, as informed to the Dewan Rakyat today. Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin confirmed the bill's progress during a question-and-answer session.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Chan Foong Hin stated that the drafting of the Fertiliser Bill has achieved significant progress, reaching approximately 70 to 80 per cent completion. The bill is seen as a critical measure to address concerns raised by farmers about the suitability of fertiliser supplies, especially during global crises.

Chan emphasized the importance of the proposed legislation in protecting agricultural industry players from manipulation within the distribution chain. He expressed hope that all Members of Parliament would support the bill when it is tabled.

In response to concerns about the impact of the conflict in West Asia, Chan reiterated KPKM's commitment to mitigating the effects on the country's food supply chain. The conflict has led to economic shocks affecting fuel costs and the prices of essential agricultural inputs like fertilisers and pesticides, increasing the risk of domestic food supply disruptions.

To address these challenges, the government has implemented temporary sales tax exemptions and increased special assistance allocations to support padi farmers. Looking ahead, the ministry is detailing plans to strengthen the agro-food ecosystem, which includes drafting new legislation and establishing emergency stockpile storage facilities.