Alor setar: The MADA Rice Training Centre (MRTC) has received new modern machinery worth RM510,000 under the 2025 Mechanisation and Automation Programme to further strengthen its position as the country's leading training hub for the padi industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) chairman Datuk Dr Ismail Salleh stated that the new machinery includes tractors, combine harvesters, and seedling machines, which will enhance training processes from land preparation to harvesting. MRTC, being the only accredited center under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) offering the Padi Production Operations Supervision Course, plays a vital role in producing skilled youth in alignment with Industrial Revolution 4.0 and modern agriculture demands.
Since its establishment in 2012, MRTC has produced 547 competent trainees ready to contribute to the padi sector. Each trainee receives certified training applicable directly in the industry. Dr. Ismail highlighted that with a focus on technology and modern facilities, MRTC aims to attract more young individuals to the padi industry, addressing the shortage of skilled workers and nurturing technology-driven entrepreneurs to ensure sector sustainability and national food security.
He pointed out the need for a larger budget to expand training capacity, as the current trainee number stands at 28, which is insufficient. MRTC has also introduced training modules integrating modern agricultural technology, including operating advanced machinery and employing drones for fertilizing and pesticide application.
MRTC is equipped with a 3.53-hectare training field with pump stations, irrigation canals, and cross drains, offering trainees realistic learning experiences within an actual farming ecosystem. Dr. Ismail expressed confidence in MRTC's potential to drive transformation in the padi industry, fostering a new generation of competitive, innovative, and technology-savvy farmers to sustain the sector and secure food supply.
Meanwhile, trainee Ahmad Mustaqim Mohamad Mahayudin from Gunung Keriang shared his experience, stating his 18-month program participation was driven by his interest in padi farming and belief in its growth potential through advanced technology. Another trainee, Mohammad Ezuan Haikal Mohamad Ezuardi from Rawang, Selangor, noted the program's promising income opportunities and his plans to further his studies in agriculture post-training.