Kedah: The Five-Season Padi Cultivation Programme in the Muda Area in Kedah is set to bring comprehensive changes to Malaysia's padi and rice industry, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on imports and enhance the nation's rice self-sufficiency rate.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized the importance of swift implementation and effective coordination to boost local rice farmers' capacity and ensure more sustainable harvests. He urged the state government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) to work diligently and collaboratively to ensure the program's success.
The MADANI government is committed to addressing the needs of rice farmers and empowering the sector through various supports and initiatives. The Prime Minister highlighted the government's dedication to safeguarding the interests of farmers, who are vital to the country's agro-food sector.
During his visit to the main infrastructure development projects under the Five-Season Padi Cultivation Programme in the Muda Area, Anwar was accompanied by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, and Muda Agricultural Development Board (MADA) chairman Datuk Dr Ismail Salleh.
Meanwhile, MADA issued a statement noting that this was the Prime Minister's second visit to the project site to assess the progress of agricultural infrastructure development. The preparations aim to implement smart agriculture and bolster the country's food supply and local rice production.
The ongoing project focuses on upgrading the irrigation and drainage system and integrating modern technology in the padi cultivation sector. Implemented through a Public Private Partnership approach, it aims to enhance planting activities, boost padi farmers' productivity, and increase their income.
MADA also views the program as a strategic effort to overhaul the country's padi and rice industry, aligning with the goals of the MADANI Government. By executing five planting seasons within two years, Malaysia anticipates reducing its dependence on imported rice and raising its self-sufficiency level for this critical commodity.
The development project comprises two main components: the construction and maintenance of 15 Tertiary Irrigation System Blocks (Project 1) and the Pedu Dam Phase 1 Comprehensive Rehabilitation Project (Project 2), with a total allocation of approximately RM1 billion. These initiatives aim to equip padi farmers to face the challenges posed by climate change, impacting both the nation and the world.