Technology · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia must harness technology and rural development for food security: Sabu
Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu has called for Malaysia to adopt innovative agricultural approaches and learn from regional peers to bolster domestic food production. The minister highlighted the need to leverage technological advancement and rural infrastructure as key pillars in strengthening the nation's food security strategy.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia should draw lessons from neighbouring countries' agricultural successes while investing in technology and rural development to enhance its food security position, Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu said on Tuesday.
Mohamad Sabu underscored the importance of modernising the agricultural sector through technological innovation, suggesting that Malaysia examine successful models implemented by regional partners. He emphasised that strengthening rural infrastructure and development initiatives would be essential to boosting domestic food production capacity.
The minister's remarks reflect growing concerns about Malaysia's reliance on food imports and the need for a comprehensive strategy to increase self-sufficiency in key agricultural commodities. Food security has emerged as a critical policy issue amid global supply chain disruptions and fluctuating commodity prices.
Experts have previously noted that Malaysia's agricultural sector faces challenges including aging farmer populations, limited arable land, and competition from imports. Addressing these issues through targeted investment in rural areas and adoption of modern farming techniques could help unlock the sector's potential and reduce import dependency.
Mohamad Sabu's call comes as policymakers across the region prioritise agricultural modernisation and food security as part of broader economic development strategies.