Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's role as ASEAN Chair in facilitating reconciliation efforts between Thailand and Cambodia following recent border tensions has been recognised internationally, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He noted that while some parties may not acknowledge Malaysia's involvement, the confidence placed by the nations involved serves as clear proof of Malaysia's esteemed political and economic stability.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar made these remarks during the opening of the MADANI Dairy Entrepreneur Carnival at the Farm Fresh Perak Dairy Complex. The event was attended by notable figures, including Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, and Minister of Education Fadhlina Sidek.
Earlier, US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan highlighted Malaysia's significant role as ASEAN Chair in peace efforts between Thailand and Cambodia through the General Boundary Committee (GBC) meeting, which addressed the tensions along the border of the two countries. Kagan remarked that Malaysia's leadership in organising the meeting demonstrated its ability to bring both nations to the negotiation table.
Anwar further stated that Malaysia's strong diplomatic ties with foreign countries have resulted in substantial benefits, particularly in creating new economic opportunities. He cited the instance during the Cambodia-Thailand conflict when Thai milk could not enter Cambodia, yet Farm Fresh milk successfully entered the market due to Malaysia's good relations with both countries.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the government's commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the nation's food security, including the dairy industry. He praised Farm Fresh Bhd, a local dairy producer, for its achievements in the dairy sector, job creation for Malaysians, and dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Meanwhile, Farm Fresh chief operations director Azmi Zainal shared insights into the company's operations, revealing that their 828-acre complex in Perak houses 4,300 dairy cows, producing 22,000 litres of milk daily. Annually, this complex generates 10 million litres of milk, making it the largest and most productive dairy farm in the country. The farm employs 150 local workers, most of whom are under 30 years old, and also purchases milk from local small farmers at competitive prices.
Azmi added that through CSR initiatives, Farm Fresh awarded scholarships to 500 STPM students last year and plans to launch a mathematics tuition programme for primary school students starting this year.