Sabah: Sabah is planning to open at least 404.6 hectares of corn plantations this year as a measure to reduce its heavy dependence on imported animal feed, which currently stands at 98 percent, while helping to stabilize chicken and egg prices in the market. Sabah Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Jamawi Jaafar highlighted the impact of rising shipping costs on the price of imported animal feed, which has consequently increased production costs for the local poultry industry.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Jamawi explained that when shipping costs increase, the price of imported materials also rises and this affects farming costs as well as the prices of chicken and eggs in the market. "That is why we cannot merely talk about lowering chicken prices when feed costs remain high," he stated. Jamawi further revealed that he has secured an allocation of RM25 million from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security this year to develop 1,000 acres of commercial corn cultivation.

Jamawi elaborated that the development of the 404.6 hectares of corn plantations is expected to increase the Self-Sufficiency Ratio (SSR) for animal feed to 20 percent this year. He expressed optimism, indicating that the target could rise to 30 percent next year if an additional 404.6 hectares could be developed. This strategic move aims to mitigate the effects of fluctuating international feed prices and enhance the local agricultural sector's resilience.