Latest news with #2025NationalPadiConference
The Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Sun
RM129m allocated for Sarawak agricultural projects in 2025
KUCHING: The federal government has allocated RM129 million for Sarawak to implement food security programmes in 2025. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup confirmed the funding covers 61 major development projects. Key initiatives include boosting the padi and rice industries in Lundu and Batang Lupar. An additional RM36.7 million was approved under the Land Use Optimisation Programme for 12 projects. Arthur emphasised the strong federal-state collaboration in advancing food security. He stated, 'The allocation and implementation of this strategic project is a reflection of the strong agreement between the federal government and the Sarawak government to support and strengthen the national food security agenda in a comprehensive and integrated manner.' The announcement followed the closing of the 2025 National Padi Conference in Kuching. The conference, themed *Padi Wave Towards National Food Security*, aimed to share research findings and foster partnerships. Stakeholders included policymakers, researchers, farmers, and industry players nationwide. - Bernama
The Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Sarawak seeks more padi seeds from MARDI to boost rice production
KUCHING: Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has requested increased padi seed supply from the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) to support the state's agricultural expansion. He highlighted Sarawak's abundance of underutilised land ideal for farming but noted persistent seed shortages. 'If MARDI can assist us, we can cultivate large areas and produce good-quality rice,' he said. Currently, Sarawak has allocated 14,000 hectares for padi farming, targeting an annual yield of 240,000 tonnes. Abang Johari stressed that expanding local cultivation would reduce dependence on imported food. 'If we succeed, we can share the yield nationwide, reducing our dependence on countries like Vietnam and Cambodia,' he added. The Premier made these remarks during his speech at the 2025 National Padi Conference opening. - Bernama
