Malaysia aims to boost its ruminant livestock self-sufficiency rate from 20% to 50% by 2030 through new agri-food programmes and modern farming projects.
KINABATANGAN: The government is committed to raising Malaysia’s self-sufficiency rate for ruminant livestock from 20% to 50% by 2030. Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the target covers the production of buffaloes, cattle and goats.
He expressed confidence the goal can be achieved through effective programme implementation. The target aligns with the national agenda to strengthen food security.
“We are currently at about 20%, still a long way to go,” Mohamad told reporters after launching the AGRO MADANI Outreach Programme. “But with the food security programmes being rolled out, we believe we can reach 50% by 2030.”
He said various initiatives are being implemented to boost domestic production. This includes active participation from grassroots farming communities.
Mohamad cited a newly approved broiler chicken project as an example of translating policy into local action. The RM2.4 million project for the Kota Kinabatangan Area Farmers’ Organisation was approved under the 13th Malaysia Plan.
It is expected to produce 30,000 chickens per cycle and operate up to four cycles annually. The project will contribute to national self-sufficiency targets while generating sustainable income.
Planned for Bukit Garam, the project incorporates modernisation through closed-house systems and smart farming technology. It will also use IoT-based digital monitoring and supported by basic infrastructure.
The ministry intends to replicate such high-impact, commercially viable projects elsewhere. Mohamad cited their strong return on investment and potential to improve farmers’ livelihoods.
“We hope that if this succeeds here, it can be expanded to other areas,” he said. “What matters most is sustainability.”
