Kuala lumpur: Sabak Bernam has been confirmed as Selangor's primary rice-producing district, based on findings from the 2024 Selangor Agricultural Census Interim Report.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin stated that rice remains the main crop in the district, covering a planted area of 24,098 hectares. The district's rice sales reached a value of RM220.1 million, accounting for more than 60 per cent of Selangor's total rice sales.

Mohd Uzir highlighted that Sabak Bernam recorded the highest number of agricultural holdings in Selangor, with 9,296 holdings, which include 9,197 individual and 99 organizational holdings out of 37,117 recorded statewide. The district also led in planted and harvested areas, contributing to overall agricultural sales worth RM1.64 billion.

Statewide data revealed that 95.6 per cent of agricultural holdings were owned by individuals, predominantly aged 46 and above, with nearly half aged 60 and above. This points to the sector's reliance on experienced farmers, emphasizing the importance of tradition and expertise in sustaining agriculture. However, Mohd Uzir noted the challenge of attracting more youth into the sector for its renewal and competitiveness.

In addition to rice production, the livestock subsector recorded 2,198 holdings with sales worth RM3.16 billion. Capture fisheries contributed RM1.39 billion from 106,920 tonnes, while aquaculture produced 16,900 tonnes and 372 million fish, valued at RM196.4 million.

The interim report was launched by Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, with state Infrastructure and Agriculture Committee chairman Datuk Izham Hashim also in attendance.