INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
rice prices has made matters worse
Even India has stopped exporting rice.In response, Bernas, a state-run company, raised imported rice prices by 36%
As a result, people are clamoring for cheaper local rice.The government is acting fast
They want to boost paddy yields from 5 to 7 tonnes per hectare.The aim? To achieve 80% self-sufficiency in rice by 2030.Moreover, they are
developing hardy paddy seedlings
(Photo Internet reproduction)At the same time, talks with India are ongoing
Malaysia is also looking for new suppliers in Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia.The Agriculture Minister has a short-term plan too
He wants local millers to produce 20% more rice within a month.He says Malaysia has enough rice stockpiled to last 4-5 months.Meanwhile,
consumers are feeling the squeeze
Prices for other food items like cooking oil are also up.Some restaurants absorb the extra costs but may have to charge more soon.El Nino is
causing dry weather, which hurts local rice farming
A diversified supplier base is crucial.So is sustainable local production
increase local rice production is a step in the right direction.Yet, this must be paired with advances in farming technology for long-term
benefits.On another note, consumer panic buying exacerbates the shortage
Public education could help alleviate this.Trade relations also play a significant role
Talks with India and exploring options with other countries aim to diversify import sources.This minimizes risk
