KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 19 — Mahfuz Omar, the chairman of the Farmers Organisation Authority (LPP), has spoken out in favor of the government’s new investment strategy aimed at farming abroad. He calls it a necessary step for “food sovereignty.”
Mahfuz, who is also a vice president of the Amanah political party, emphasizes that food sovereignty isn’t just about how much food a country can produce. It’s also about having control over vital elements like data, logistics, and prices to ensure the food system can withstand global challenges. “Without this control, any sense of sovereignty may only be temporary,” he noted in a recent statement.
He argues that the reverse investment strategy should strengthen Malaysia’s food security. By focusing on critical inputs like seeds and fertilizers, this approach aims to buffer against unpredictable global market shifts. It’s not about replacing local farmers but helping them by adding stability to the market.
This year, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) plans to push for overseas investments in areas like cattle, rice, and milk. They have ambitious targets: increasing beef and buffalo meat production to 50,000 metric tonnes and aiming for an 18% self-sufficiency ratio (SSR).
KPKM secretary-general Isham Ishak noted that these investments, such as growing rice abroad, would allow Malaysia to bring essential supplies back home. According to recent statistics, around 10% of Malaysia’s food still relies on imports, making these initiatives particularly timely. The goal is to reduce reliance on foreign markets by creating a more resilient local food system.
In the backdrop of rising food prices globally, these investments could position Malaysia to better navigate economic swings. Farmers and businesses in the country are eager to find a balance between local production and global engagement. As Mahfuz highlighted, this strategy could also open doors for local companies to gain expertise and investment, ultimately benefiting the entire agro-food ecosystem.
In a world where food security remains a pressing concern, Malaysia’s focus on strategic foreign investments could lead to more controlled and sustainable agricultural practices. The conversation continues as citizens and stakeholders weigh in on the potential impacts of these policies on the nation’s food landscape.
For more informed discussions on agricultural strategies worldwide, you can check out this resource from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
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food consumption,food production,food security,Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM)
