January-February . 2025 | @ AGROBiz

Since assuming his position in September 2024 , Datuk Seri Isham Ishak assumed the role of Secretary General of the Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security ( MAFS ) and just a few months into his position , he has begun introducing straightforward reforms - consolidating small farms , adopting practical technology and streamlining supply chains - to address these long-standing issues .

FIRST STEPS

The first pillar of the plan is to improve food security by rethinking the size and management of small farms . In many rural areas , individual farmers often manage only one or two acres - a scale that limits yield and profitability . Isham clarified that the yield can be raised , and they will be more profitable if they can combine them to form 20 acres and manage them holistically .

“ This consolidation not only boosts efficiency but also paves the way for shared resources and expertise , making modern farming practices accessible even to those who once struggled with minimal plots ,” said Isham .

Equally important is the role of technology in combating climate change challenges . Isham stressed that advanced farming techniques are critical , stating : “ Technology will be crucial to make sure that we have the proper seed for farming that can withstand higher temperatures and face challenges such as flooding .

“ By integrating resilient seed varieties and modern irrigation

Modernising agriculture through technology , certifications , and market expansion

methods , the ministry aims to mitigate the risks posed by extreme weather while ensuring steady production .”

Furthermore , clustering certain crops - such as grouping animal feed corn near chicken breeders and drying facilities - allows farmers to benefit from shared equipment and support services . This strategic clustering not only maximises yield per hectare but also reduces individual costs , offering a practical solution for a more competitive sector .

KEY SHIFTS

Isham ’ s plan seeks to overhaul the broader food ecosystem by reforming the supply chain .

He explained that : “ Food security does not mean that we have enough food ; it also means that the food is safe .

“ To achieve this , the ministry is working to reform wet markets - ensuring cleanliness , instituting regular safety checks , and even integrating circular economy practices such as converting organic waste into fertilisers .

“ The aim is to establish a comprehensive , safe , and efficient supply chain spanning the upstream , midstream , and downstream sectors .”

“ Food security does not mean that we have enough food ; it also means that the food is safe .

Another critical strategy is enhancing market access for agricultural and agri-food products through negotiations on sanitary and phytosanitary ( SPS ) standards . Departments such as the Department of Agriculture ( DOA ), Department of Veterinary Services ( DVS ), and Department of Fisheries ( DOF ) work closely with importing countries to secure these approvals .

FUTURE FOCUS

The international dimension of the reform agenda is equally significant .

Malaysia ’ s agricultural attaches - in eight key markets ( Sydney , Australia , Bangkok , Thailand , Tokyo , Japan , Beijing , China , Dubai , UAE , The Hague , Netherlands , US and

Rome ) - are actively promoting local products , especially in the lucrative halal food market .

Isham remarked : “ It is important that at home we make sure that the quality of the products that we have are of international standard . In this competitive arena , clarity in the supply chain becomes crucial .”

The ministry is also emphasising transparent halal certification processes , where every step - from production to distribution - is clearly audited and traceable . This commitment to quality and transparency is expected to boost consumer confidence overseas and unlock further export potential in a market that exceeds US $ 11 billion in demand .

Malaysia has also secured a significant breakthrough in durian exports with a newly established protocol between MAFS and China ’ s General Administration of Customs ( GACC ).

This milestone is expected to increase Malaysia ’ s durian exports by 36 per cent , reaching RM1.8 billion by 2030 . Beyond durian , MAFS is working closely with agencies such as MATRADE and Malaysian embassies abroad to facilitate market access for local agri-food products , including halal-certified items .

Alongside these production and supply-side reforms , ensuring food affordability and accessibility remains a top priority . Through programmes like AgroBazaar and Bazaar Madani , the ministry is actively connecting producers with the nation ’ s most vulnerable communities , particularly those in the B40 group .

The results of the programme are as follows :

• Over 10,000 AgroBazaars have been organised in the past two years .

• The sales value was up to RM1.91 million .

• The value of savings was RM0.575 million .

• There were about 1499 entrepreneurs .

• And it benefitted about 0.183 million people . This pragmatic roadmap , focusing on incremental and tangible improvements , is a clear departure from overly grandiose promises . It reflects a commitment to solving everyday challenges with straightforward , actionable measures that promise lasting impact .

As the reforms unfold over the next 15 years , the aim is to secure a more resilient , self-sufficient agricultural system - one that not only meets the nation ’ s current needs but is robust enough to adapt to future challenges . – @ AGROBiz