Paddy, pineapple power to steal spotlight

MIRI: Sarawak will focus on paddy planting and the cultivation of the new Sarawak Gold 1 (SG1) pineapple variety at the upcoming Malaysian Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro Tourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2024, said Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.

Mohamad said the state had potential to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas through agriculture.
Sarawak will showcase its advancements in paddy planting and pineapple cultivation at MAHA 2024, which will be held in Serdang, Selangor, from Sept 11 to 22.

“Rice and pineapples are the focus for Sarawak’s contribution at MAHA 2024. While fish and other commodities are also important, the primary concern now is rice, especially in terms of food security,” Mohamad said during the launching of the ‘Ramah Mesra Madani’ programme with local fishermen today (Aug 11).

He stressed the importance of ensuring a stable rice supply in Malaysia, likening food security to national defence.

“Just as we invest heavily in defence for national security, we must do the same for food security. If there is even a slight disruption in rice exports from countries like India, Malaysia could face serious challenges.

That is why we are making every effort to ensure sufficient rice production in our country,” he added.
Deputy Minister for Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development I (Modernisation of Agriculture) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail was also present.