Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup says sustainable soil management is key to tackling urbanisation and climate threats, with RM120 million allocated for soil restoration.
KLANG: Strengthening sustainable soil management is a core government priority for tackling the challenges of urbanisation and climate change, said Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup.
He emphasised that soil is a strategic asset, as such protecting it is essential for the future of the agri-food sector and the long-term health of the nation’s ecosystem.
“Soil is a strategic asset that supports agriculture in rural areas and plays a vital role in urban ecosystems through microclimate regulation, water source filtration, carbon storage and community-scale food production.
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“Although Malaysia is not an arid country, we are not safe from land degradation and drought. This is why sustainable soil management is a core component of our national agri-food policies, strategies and programmes,” he said in a speech delivered by KPKM director-general Datuk Nor Sam Alwi at the 2025 World Soil Day celebration on Friday (December 5).
He said the government has allocated RM100 million in Budget 2026 to restore degraded padi land and a further RM20 million to supply foliar fertilisers and soil enhancers, benefiting 6,400 farmers nationwide.
“KPKM is committed to integrating sustainable soil management into all agricultural policies to ensure soil remains a fertile resource, not a barren legacy,” he said.
Themed “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”, World Soil Day, which is celebrated annually on Dec 5, is an important platform to raise awareness on the significance of healthy soil for human life, climate stability and food security.
