KUALA LUMPUR: The government's plans to boost the agricultural sector with an allocation of RM5 billion is set to revolutionise the nation's paddy and rice industry.
Padiberas Nasional Berhad (Bernas) lauded the announcement made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and said that it complements the company's ongoing efforts in the industry.
"The investment measures undertaken by the government are set to revolutionise and further boost the nation's paddy and rice industry. These efforts aim to increase local rice production and, in turn, improve farmers' livelihoods.
"This timely announcement complements Bernas' ongoing efforts as one of the key players driving the implementation of the Large-Scale Paddy Field (Smart SBB) programme to advance and develop the local paddy and rice industry," it said in a statement.
In line with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security's(MAFS) efforts to drive the productivity of the national paddy sector, Bernas noted the Smart SBB programme adopts the use of internet of things and modern mechanisation.
Additionally, Bernas is developing a farm management system to monitor large-scale paddy fields more efficiently, which is further supported by an early detection system for paddy diseases and infestations.
"Bernas remains committed to fulfilling its social obligations to ensure national food security while also being open to collaborating with all stakeholders to maintain the stability and availability of rice supplies for Malaysians.
"This announcement will boost local paddy and rice production, drive growth and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, potentially attracting the younger generation to be involved in the agriculture industry," it added.
The government announced on Saturday that it is planning several mega projects in the agricultural sector, including the first phase of a large scale padi cultivation initiative.