Worried govt producing GMO rice? Agriculture Ministry says Perak run is only a controlled test

Agriculture Ministry official Isham Ishak clarified that the proposed genetically modified rice field trial in Perak involving the MR219 variety is merely a controlled test plot, not indicative of official approval for GMO crops in Malaysia. The trial aims to gather scientific evidence and data on GMO potential contributions to food security, rather than permitting its commercial use.

Ishak emphasized that the purpose of the test plot is not to allow GMO crops but to understand their possible benefits for future food security. He assured that the controlled, monitored, and documented conditions of the test plot would prevent any potential issues from spreading beyond the trial area. The official highlighted that exploring methods to boost agricultural productivity is crucial for Malaysia's food security strategy, given the nation's ongoing struggle to maintain sufficient agricultural land while catering to the needs of an expanding population.