Latest news with #13thMalaysiaPlan
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Census sets new benchmark for agricultural sector
KUALA LUMPUR: The findings from the 2024 Agriculture Census Interim Report are set to become a critical new benchmark for the development and transformation of Malaysia's agricultural sector. Statistics Department chief statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the insights — gathered through the nationwide census conducted from July 7 to Dec 31 last year, would provide vital input into several key national strategies — including the 13th Malaysia Plan, the National Agrofood Policy 2021–2030, the National Agricommodity Policy 2021–2030 and the National Food Security Policy Action Plan 2021–2025. "These findings are not merely statistical data; they reflect the real conditions, challenges and opportunities within the sector," he said after the launch of the 2024 Agriculture Census Interim Report on Thursday. Gracing the launch event was Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is also the energy transition and water transformation minister. Also present were Agriculture and Food Security Deputy Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mad Zaidi Mohd Karli. Among the key findings from the 2024 Agriculture Census, Uzir said, was that Malaysia recorded 1,030,020 agriculture holders, with a staggering 97.9 per cent (or 1,008,829) being individual agriculture holders. The remaining 21,191 operations are managed by establishments' agricultural holders. He said the data also indicates that 258,129 agriculture holders are involved in food crop cultivation, including padi, vegetables and fruits. At the same time, 623,365 individuals manage commercial crops such as oil palm and rubber. Additionally, 43,816 agriculture holders are engaged in livestock, 8,407 in aquaculture, 48,267 in fisheries and 7,930 in forestry and logging. In terms of age groups, the largest proportion of individual agricultural holdings is in the 60 years and over category, with 458,263 individuals (45.4 per cent), followed by those aged 46 to 59 years at 326,287 individuals (32.4 per cent). The 31 to 45 years age group accounts for 190,952 individuals (18.9 per cent) while the 15 to 30 years age group represent only 33,207 individuals (3.3 per cent). "The data highlights Malaysia's agricultural sector's strong dependence on older farmers, with 45.4 per cent of agricultural holders aged 60 and above, while only 142,888 youths aged 15 to 40 are active in the industry. "This situation poses serious challenges, such as labour shortages, a slow integration of modern technologies and the urgent need to revitalise the sector. "It is crucial to attract more young people to agricultural careers to safeguard the sector's future sustainability and the country's food security." Uzir said other key takeaways from the census is that establishment agriculture holders recorded much higher productivity than individual agriculture holders such as oil palm, pineapple and cocoa. "This shows the importance of economies of scale, the use of technology and more systematic governance. "Among the main challenges faced by individual agriculture holdings is the limited land area, especially land of less than 2.02ha. "This small land size has a significant impact on the effectiveness of agricultural activities, especially in terms of productivity and yield. "This not only affects farmers' income, but also has implications for the development of the country's agricultural sector as a whole." Uzir said the census also found potential in the cultivation of new crops such as kenaf, Napier and seaweed. Kenaf, for example, has a cultivated area of 1,497.0ha with a production of 9,916.1 tonnes, while Napier recorded a cultivated area of 1,387.7ha with a production of 35,687 tonnes. "These industries have great potential in terms of value added exports and production of downstream products, where the supply chain needs to be strengthened to drive the growth of this segment." Uzir said from the census, crop industries such as coffee, coconut and cocoa have shown a decline in terms of planted area, productivity and the number of active entrepreneurs. "However, the industry retains significant strategic value and can be revitalised through well-planned, modern and integrated approaches." Uzir added that engagement sessions will be organised with stakeholders to discuss the findings of the census. "These sessions serve as a platform to discuss agriculture issues including food security concerns. "It is hoped that all stakeholders including government agencies, research institutions, academia, industry players and farmers can utilise agricultural statistics to the fullest in making evidence-based decisions and contributing to the growth of a sustainable and competitive agricultural sector." During the event, the department also released 15 interim reports encompassing the Interim Report on Agriculture Sector, which presents statistics for the entire agricultural sector, followed by five subsectors; crops, livestock, fisheries and aquaculture, as well as forestry and logging. The remaining 14 reports covered oil palm, rubber, padi, pineapple, kenaf, cocoa, pepper, fruits, vegetables and other crops. The reports covered six key parameters — agricultural holdings profile, area planted, harvested area, quantity of production and sales and sales value. The agriculture census plays a vital role in supporting not only farmers and policymakers, but also businesses within the broader agricultural value chain. Doluvo Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Rose Yasmin Abdul Karim said the data gathered from the census is instrumental in helping companies plan for growth and source raw materials more effectively. As the manufacturer of Popsmalaya, a homegrown brand known for fruit-based ice lollies, Yasmin emphasised the importance of using local ingredients. "One of our key strategies moving forward is to collaborate directly with local farmers through contract manufacturing. "The latest data from the agriculture census helps us make informed decisions that align with our long-term goals," she said. Although not all ingredients — such as berries — are sourced locally, Popsmalaya remains committed to showcasing Malaysian produce, with pineapple emerging as a signature flavour. "When we participate in international trade shows, people are often intrigued by unique flavours like pineapple. Pineapple lollies are still uncommon overseas, which gives us a competitive edge," Yasmin said. Popsmalaya exports to over 30 countries and attributes its global success to support from agencies such as the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority. Yasmin's sentiment was echoed by Mohd Azhan Fhitri Md Rafi, a sales coordinator at Mascorn Sdn Bhd. "For companies like Mascorn, access to accurate and comprehensive agricultural data enables us to better align with market trends and plan strategically. "It also helps identify emerging needs and opportunities across the sector.
The Star
a day ago
- Politics
- The Star
PM: No prosecution without proof
KOTA KINABALU: Stating that he is not a dictator, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said while he has a duty to maintain peace and uphold law, it is not to the extent of prosecuting without proof and going through the proper procedures. 'I want to be straightforward: What's the use of saying nice things that sound good? 'What I want to say here is (about) those videos that were circulated, I did not want to get involved. 'But when things heated up, of course I will ask the MACC (Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission) about it,' the Prime Minister said, assuring that thorough investigations are ongoing in this case. He was commenting on videos implicating state ministers and assemblymen, accusing them of allegedly receiving bribes in the controversial mining prospecting scandal in Sabah. Anwar said people had started to question why he did not intervene and made it sound as if he was trying to help cover up the alleged corruption. 'But I am not a dictator. We are not a country of perception. These things cannot be handled based on perception, accusation and slander,' Anwar said when opening the Kaamatan Festival, held at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association yesterday. The Prime Minister also said that when fighting for state rights or asking for allocations, those who choose to work closely with the Federal Government can achieve more. 'For example in the PETRONAS and Petros Sarawak issue, we discussed properly with Abang Jo (Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg) and came to a solution,' he said. Anwar said the Federal Govern-ment has no intention of stopping anyone or any state from being independent, and he has no issue giving Sabah and Sarawak more in terms of its revenue, including its oil and gas. 'However, we discuss and have close working relations rather than winning an argument by shouting and cursing,' he said. Anwar said the government would always listen to views and requests from Sabah be it for infrastructure, social or economic developments. He said the Federal Government has done much to bring peace, prosperity and development to Sabah and its people, adding that it was good working relations with the state that had brought about this success. 'This is not about (the upcoming state) election but about our responsibility and protecting our harmony. 'The state-federal relations must be maintained well,' said Anwar. He said for the 13th Malaysia Plan, the inclusion of Sabah and other states into development plans and initiatives were part of the main agenda.
Barnama
2 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
NanoMalaysia Berhad Wins Accolades at ITEX 2025 for National Innovations
KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 (Bernama) -- NMB (NanoMalaysia Berhad), the nation's lead agency for nanotechnology and deep tech commercialisation under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), achieved prominent recognition at the 36th International Invention, Innovation & Technology Exhibition (ITEX 2025), held from 29 to 30 May 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Competing in the Corporate category of the prestigious ITEX Invention & Design Competition, NMB presented four breakthrough innovations showcasing Malaysia's leadership in hydrogen mobility, advanced energy storage, sustainable household technology, and intelligent monitoring systems as high value technological interventions to Malaysia's economic growth trajectory to become a high-tech and high income nation through both the 12th and 13th Malaysia Plan periods.
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Zahid: All ‘sick projects' in Sarawak must be fully implemented under 13th M'sia Plan
Ahmad Zahid (first left) chairing a special meeting on the implementation of development projects in Sarawak with state officials at Sheraton Hotel here. – Photo by Chimon Upon. KUCHING (May 30): All delayed or problematic federal projects in Sarawak under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK12), which are categorised as 'sick projects' , must be fully implemented under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Speaking at a press conference after chairing a two-hour special meeting with Sarawak officials at the Sheraton Hotel today, Zahid said the 403 affected projects, valued at RM21.73 billion, must proceed without delay across all five rolling plans of RMK13. 'Firstly, all allocation issues from RMK12 and even some from RMK11, have been resolved. This includes matters such as land acquisition, which the Sarawak government has agreed to expedite,' he said. 'Secondly, alignment conflicts that required adjustments in implementation have also been settled,' he said. Of the 403 projects, 178 (44.71 per cent) are still in the 'pre-implementation' phase, with 155 of these approved between 2021 and 2025. He added that 91 of the projects will be issued the Standard Specification Tender documents by the end of 2025. 'I take seriously the report that there are five delayed projects due to site issues such as permits, land acquisition, and pipeline alignment overlaps. 'Additionally, weather conditions have also contributed to project delays,' he said. Ahmad Zahid said the resolution of these problems now allows for streamlined implementation under the upcoming national development plan. He also announced that reconstruction works will begin after Gawai for 14 houses in Kampung Lereng Bukit, Miri, destroyed by a landslide on Jan 29. To accelerate delivery, Ahmad Zahid said federal implementation authority will be delegated to Sarawak's state agencies instead of continuing to rely on federal departments like Felcra Berhad and GiatMARA. In terms of education development, he announced the upcoming opening of the Kolej Poly-Tech MARA (KPTM) campus in Kota Samarahan, which will welcome its first batch of 200 students in September. The college is expected to expand its enrollment to 1,000 students by 2028. 'KPTM will serve as a feeder institution for Sarawak-based universities and also channel students to Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia (UPTM) for degree and postgraduate programmes. 'What's important is aligning courses with student interests and workforce needs, to prevent mismatches between what is offered and what is demanded in the job market,' he said. He also addressed issues affecting 21 KEMAS (Community Development Department) kindergartens and nurseries (tabika and tadika) across Sarawak, noting that some, such as in Sebuyau, have been resolved. To ensure accountability, Zahid has appointed Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang to monitor the progress of project implementation weekly. The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) remains committed to accelerating infrastructure development through programmes such as Rural Roads (JALB), Rural Water Supply (BALB), Rural Electricity Supply (BELB), and other community facilities. 'Sarawak, especially its rural areas, deserves the same development priority as any other region in Malaysia,' Zahid added. Also present were Deputy Minister of KKDW Datuk Rubiah Wang, KKDW Head Secretary Datuk Muhd Khair Razman Mohamed Annuar, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Martin Ben, and Deputy State Secretary Datu Buckland Bangik. 13th Malaysia Plan ahmad zahid hamidi development education sick projects
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Govt pays attention to states' requests in determining 13MP project priority - Anwar
Anwar mingles with exhibition participants in traditional Sandayo dress during the official opening of the Kaamatan Festival at Hongkod Koisaan on Friday. PENAMPANG (May 30): The Federal Government always takes into consideration the needs and requests of all states in determining the priority of projects under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He explained that the priority of projects could not be determined solely by the Federal Government and, instead, is jointly decided with the state governments after their requests are heard and attended to by the Federal leadership. Citing Sabah, Anwar said that in almost every working visit he has made to the state, meetings or gatherings are held between leaders and senior federal and state officials to directly discuss requests from the state government. 'I'm not saying that 13MP (projects) do not take place, previously there are requests which are vetted by the Federal ministries… now no more, (as) requests are made directly (at meetings) chaired by the Prime Minister, there are Chief Ministers, there are state ministers. 'We listen and pay attention directly. Frankly, this only happens because of uniformity, (as well as) good and close relationships due to mutual trust,' he said when officiating the Sabah state-level Kaamatan Festival celebration here om Friday. The event, held at Dewan Hongkod Koisaan, Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA), was also attended by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam and KDCA president Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan. Anwar also expressed his gratitude to Hajiji and the Sabah government for their openness to cooperating with the leaders and Federal government in a bid to develop and elevate the dignity of Malaysia and Sabah. The Prime Minister emphasised that the spirit to strengthen Sabah must be nurtured through the strong unity between the Federal and state governments within the framework of the Federation. As such, he reminded everyone not to raise issues that can erode that good relationship simply for political mileage, especially ahead of the Sabah State Election. 'In the battle leading up to this election… leaders who have led before, who were together, sometimes forget just to ramp up the political atmosphere, raising issues that erode confidence in the country… this is not healthy,' he said. Anwar said the Federal government and the states, particularly Sabah and Sarawak, have many diversity and differences, but this must be seen as a strength for Malaysia as a country for the wellbeing of its people. He said that when Malaysia was established, 'Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu' (Unity is Strength) was chosen as the national motto to illustrate the importance of togetherness in diversity in strengthening the country. 'Diversity can also be destructive, where there are countries in this world which initially embraced a multiracial and multi-religious society, but later experienced hostility between races, religions and regions. Which nation can be successful like that, everything will end up in ruin. 'So, no matter how difficult it is, any sensible leader in a political campaign to fight for the post of state assemblyman or Member of Parliament must remember never to sacrifice the state or country,' he said.-Bernama
