M'sia Strengthening Food Security, Targetting Regional Leadership In Food Trade And Innovation - Chan
KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is strengthening its food security through rice stocks of about 1.24 million metric tonnes while positioning itself for regional leadership in food trade and innovation.
Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin said that the amount comprised 200,000 metric tonnes under the National Rice Buffer Stock and about 1.04 million metric tonnes of commercial stocks held by millers, wholesalers and retailers.
He said the total was sufficient to meet domestic demand for up to six months in the event of disruptions to international rice supplies.
Chan said climate change, geopolitical conflicts, rising production costs and global supply chain disruptions had made food security one of the world’s key priorities.
“A resilient food system depends not only on strong agricultural production, but also on efficient supply chains, value-added manufacturing, innovation and market access. These are all essential elements in strengthening Malaysia’s food ecosystem,” he said in his speech when opening the fourth edition of Food & Drinks Malaysia by SIAL 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) here today.
Chan said the Ploughing Incentive for Padi Farmers (IPKP) had been increased from RM160 to RM300 per hectare per season beginning this year, supported by an additional RM42 million allocation.
The government has also introduced the Padi Harvesting Incentive (IPP) of RM50 per hectare per season, while continuing to provide fertiliser and pesticide subsidies and monitor global fertilizer prices.
Chan said Food & Drinks Malaysia by SIAL had grown into one of ASEAN’s key food and beverage trade platforms, connecting producers, buyers, investors, policymakers and industry players from around the world.
“The government provides an enabling environment through sound policies, strategic investments and effective regulation, while industry drives innovation, develops new products, expands markets and creates value throughout the food supply chain,” he said.
Meanwhile, SIAL Network managing director ( ASEAN and India ) Henri Tan said this year’s event was its largest edition to date, featuring more than 800 chefs from 23 countries and over 1,000 business matching sessions, conferences, competitions, masterclasses and networking activities.
He said last year’s edition generated about US$285 million (RM1.17 billion) in potential trade value, while organisers were targeting more than US$300 million (RM1.23 billion) this year.
Food & Drinks Malaysia by SIAL 2026, held from July 21 to 23, also features the Chocolate Show, SIAL Innovation Awards, Global Culinary Challenge Malaysia, ASEAN Barista Team Championship, Halal Forum and the inaugural SIAL Culinary Masters Asia.
-- BERNAMA
