Super El Nino threat: Govt steps up measures to protect padi supply, fisheries as heat and drought loom

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 — The Malaysian government is intensifying its efforts to safeguard key sectors like padi production and fisheries in the wake of the Super El Nino phenomenon. Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has ramped up inter-agency measures to combat the extreme weather conditions. The looming threat of high temperatures and prolonged drought looms, threatening the country's staple food supply.

Mohamad emphasized the ministry's focus on addressing issues such as dam water levels, specifically at the Ahning Dam in Kedah, which are currently at alert and warning thresholds, potentially endangering padi cultivation in the Muda granary region. The ministry is leveraging a multi-pronged approach, incorporating technology, to mitigate these risks.

This includes implementing Integrated Water Resources Management, enhancing the Smart Irrigation Monitoring System, and promoting Controlled Environment Agriculture to ensure sustainable water security.

In the fisheries sector, rising sea temperatures are altering fish distribution, impacting aquaculture water quality, and endangering reef ecosystems. The ministry anticipates a decline of 5,624 metric tonnes, or 1.5 percent, in capture fisheries and aquaculture production this year. To confront these challenges, the ministry has implemented various proactive measures, such as early weather warning systems, the MyFSI location tracking system, and the Aquaculture Disaster Mitigation Plan. Additionally, the Fisheries Sector Climate Change Action Plan 2024-2030 has been put into action.

Under the 2027 Budget, RM125.9 million has been allocated for fiscal support, with funds directed towards initiatives like 3,000 additional special small-boat licences, Agro BioFloc financing, Capture Fisheries Catalyst Financing, and biofisheries and biosecurity initiatives. The ministry's assurance of increased frozen fish reserves to 10,000 metric tonnes by September 30 aims to prepare for the Super El Nino phenomenon and the impending Northeast Monsoon.

The ministry's 2027 Budget allocation totals RM6.92 billion, comprising RM4.85 billion for operating expenditure and RM2.07 billion for development expenditure. The ongoing Dewan Rakyat session is expected to continue today.