Mohamad Sabu: Malaysia must leverage technology, rural development to strengthen food security

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 — Malaysia must adopt China's strategies to bolster its agricultural sector and food security, according to Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. In a Facebook post yesterday, Sabu highlighted that Malaysia possesses the potential to enhance its agro-food industry by adopting effective approaches, based on successful examples from other nations, while respecting the interests of local industry players.

Sabu pointed to China's successes in leveraging technology, increasing productivity, promoting rural development, and employing systematic and continuous planning in its agricultural sector. He urged Malaysia to be bold in learning from China's experiences and adapt strategies suited to the country's specific needs, all the while supporting local farmers, rice growers, livestock breeders, and fishermen.

Sabu made these remarks during a Cabinet Meeting following his visit to China for the 11th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Food Security Ministers’ Meeting in Hangzhou. He emphasized the need to strengthen regional cooperation to maintain a robust and stable food supply chain, with the ultimate aim of ensuring that the nation's people have sufficient food, consistent supply, and a resilient food system capable of withstanding future challenges.