1,000 set to discuss global irrigation
Published on: Mon, Aug 04, 2025 Text Size: Kota Kinabalu: The 4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4) will bring together over 1,000 participants from more than 30 countries. The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, said the forum serves as a key platform for strategic discussions on the future of the global irrigation sector, which is currently facing multi-dimensional pressures, including water resource constraints. Malaysia will host the conference, which will take place from September 7 to 13, this year, at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur. 'Over 100 papers will be presented by representatives from government agencies, research institutions, international organisations, the private sector, and farming communities both from within Malaysia and abroad,' he said during the Pre-Launch Ceremony of WIF4 and the International Executive Council (IEC) Meeting, held in conjunction with the 2025 National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen Day (HPPNK) here on Saturday. He stated that one of the main events is the High-Level Advisory Group Meeting, which will be attended by key leaders, technical experts, and policymakers from 24 countries to discuss water resilience and the sustainable modernization of irrigation. 'The outcome of the meeting is expected to outline policy recommendations and a global direction to strengthen the irrigation sector in support of global food sustainability,' he said. He stated that WIF4 also serves as an important platform for fostering collaboration between practical experience and scientific research, as well as strengthening international networks. 'I urge policymakers, researchers, engineers, and agri-entrepreneurs to make full use of this forum to accelerate the implementation of high-impact projects and to adopt innovative technologies and practices,' he explained. Mohamad stated that the forum's theme, Is Irrigation a Sunset Industry?, is highly significant as it challenges all stakeholders to reassess the direction of the irrigation sector in the context of the digital era and the climate crisis. He added that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is actively implementing various initiatives, including the adoption of modern technologies such as precision agriculture, Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart irrigation systems, and sustainable approaches to water resource management. He stated that the theme encourages critical discussions and promotes new innovations to ensure the irrigation sector remains relevant, productive, and sustainable. The organisation of the forum is also supported by The Malaysian Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp), and Malaysia Airlines as the Official Supporting Airline Partner. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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