KOTA BHARU: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security will ensure the country’s food stockpile remains adequate throughout the approaching monsoon season.
Secretary-General Datuk Seri Isham Ishak stated that unaffected states can assist in balancing national food requirements during flooding.
He confirmed that nationwide rice stocks can sustain public needs for five to seven months during major disasters.
“We have over 200 million metric tonnes of rice buffer stock to maintain supply during emergencies or logistical disruptions from flooding.”
The ministry has identified high-risk flood areas and performed drainage maintenance through KADA to protect paddy growers.
Isham revealed that RM17 million from a RM20 million allocation has already been spent on drainage cleaning and tree removal.
The remaining RM3 million will fund continued cleaning operations in identified flood hotspots.
KPKM has also prepared post-flood initiatives to help farmers regenerate income through alternative agricultural activities.
These include chilli cultivation in polybags which offers easier management and reduced risk.
The approach focuses not only on temporary financial aid but also helping flood victims restore family economies through quick-return agricultural activities.
Isham made these comments after officiating the Kemubu Agricultural Development Board 2024 Excellent Service Awards Ceremony. – Bernama
