@ AGROBiz | July-August . 2024

The urgency of this decision underscores the government ’ s commitment to ensuring the sustainability of the rice industry and preventing market disruptions .

The proposed price hike is expected to provide a necessary boost to local rice producers , helping them to maintain operations and continue supplying the market .

“ We are closely overseeing food imports and will act promptly to address any health threats .”

The government aims to support the rice industry and ensure market stability by October

The move , which is currently under review , involves discussions among several key government departments .

ADDRESSING MARKET STABILITY

During a Press conference at the launch of MAHA 2024 , Minister of Agriculture and Food Security ( MAFS ) Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu , revealed that MAFS was deliberating the proposal to adjust the BPT price alongside the Ministry of Economy , the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living ( KPDN ), and other relevant bodies .

This collaborative effort aims to address the challenges faced by the rice production sector .

The decision to increase the ceiling price is crucial for stabilising the rice market . The proposed adjustment suggests raising the price from RM2.60 to RM3.20 per kilogramme .

This increase is intended to protect paddy farmers and prevent the potential oversupply of local rice , which low purchase prices and reduced manufacturer interest have exacerbated .

“ The discussions are ongoing , and we are working towards a solution that supports all stakeholders in the rice supply chain ,” a government spokesperson noted .

Mat Sabu addressing the press after MAHA 2024 Launch .

AGRICULTURE and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu recently stressed the need for Malaysia to tap into new international markets for its food products , specifically targeting the Commonwealth of Independent States ( CIS ).

As an officiant at the Selangor Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority ( Fama ) Fest in Aeon Bukit Tinggi , Klang , Mohamad Sabu highlighted the ministry ’ s long-standing goal of expanding the global reach of local products .

“ We must explore new markets for our food and processed food products . In the CIS , Malaysian products are scarcely found compared to those from Thailand and Vietnam . We are lagging ,” he said .

The Selangor Fama Fest 2024 , which took place from June 27 to 30 , was intended to attract 50,000 visitors and 200 entrepreneurs over four days and generate RM750,000 in sales .

The anticipated outcome of the business matchmaking sessions with exporters from the UK , Hong Kong , and Cambodia was RM3 million in sales .

At the launch , key officials included Agriculture and Food Security Ministry Secretary- General Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali , Fama Chairman Aminuddin Zulkipli , and Director-General Abdul Rashid Bahri .

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS AND MONITORING

In addition to the rice price adjustments , the Department of Veterinary Services ( DVS ) is actively monitoring international food imports . Recent concerns about bird flu outbreaks , such as the case of a dairy worker in the United States contracting the virus from an infected cow , have highlighted the need for stringent import controls .

The DVS is taking precautionary measures to prevent any potential risks to local food security .

“ We are closely overseeing food imports and will act promptly to address any health threats ,” the department assured .

As the government moves towards finalising the rice price increase , the focus remains on stabilising the market and supporting local agriculture . This decision is anticipated to have a significant impact on the rice industry and the broader food supply chain .

Mohamad emphasised the significance of Fama ’ s contribution to advancing the exposure of Malaysian products internationally , namely in the food industry .

“ Our coffee is well-known internationally , and many types meet international standards .”

Moreover , during the launch , Mohamad Sabu awarded RM645,750 in grants to 40 recipients through programmes such as Young Agropreneur and Agrobazaar Rakyat .

Since its inception in 2017 , Fama Fest has generated a remarkable RM24 million in sales , brought together 2,180 entrepreneurs , and drawn the attention of 2.2 million visitors . – @ AGROBiz