Incheon: Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu highlighted the critical role of innovation and artificial intelligence (AI) technology in strengthening the food system. He shared this during a roundtable session at the 10th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Food Security Ministerial Meeting (10th FSMM), held yesterday in Incheon, South Korea.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) said that Mohamad, who led the Malaysian delegation, also underscored the need to identify common priorities and enhance regional cooperation to achieve sustainable food security throughout the region. Mohamad expressed Malaysia's deep concern over the deteriorating global food security situation exacerbated by conflicts, climate disasters, and economic instability. The ministry's statement highlighted the alarming hunger crises and severe violations of international law, including the human right to food, particularly in Sudan and Gaza. Malaysia has aligned with the international community in condemning these actions and called for increased humanitarian aid distribution and immediate relief efforts.
Themed 'Building a Sustainable Tomorrow', the 10th FSMM focuses on three priorities: Connect, Innovate, and Prosper. The meeting provides a vital platform to exchange insights on agricultural innovation and foster collaboration towards sustainable food security. Discussions emphasized sustainability, smart innovation, and the alignment of global connectivity with APEC economies' priorities, aiming to develop a resilient and sustainable food system.
The ministry noted that on the sidelines of the meeting, Mohamad paid a courtesy visit to South Korea's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Song Mi-ryung. Both ministers reiterated their commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation in the agricultural sector. Key topics discussed included opportunities for collaboration in research, agricultural modernisation, and human capital development. This collaboration encompasses the registration and monitoring of biopesticides and the application of AI technology for early pest attack detection, particularly on paddy crops.
Furthermore, Mohamad extended an invitation to South Korea to participate in the High-Level Advisory Group (HLAG2025) meeting, which will be held alongside the 4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4) and the 76th International Executive Council (IEC) Meeting of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), scheduled for September in Kuala Lumpur.