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Special committee to boost meat production should look into challenges faced by meat producers, says expert

KUALA LUMPUR: The special committee formed to look into the country's low self-sufficiency level (SSL) in ruminant meat should closely examine current production methods and identify barriers faced by local producers, such as access to quality feed, modern technology, and financing.

Associate Professor Dr Bakri Mat from the School of International Studies at the College of Law, Government, and International Studies of Universiti Utara Malaysia believes that understanding these challenges is key to addressing the country's low SSL of ruminant meat, which is reported to stand at only 20 percent.

"Understanding these challenges is key.

"They should also work with universities and research bodies to come up with new ways to improve livestock management and boost productivity.

"By tapping into the expertise of these partners, the committee can drive real innovation and help make local meat production more efficient and sustainable," he said.

Bakri, nevertheless, said the setting of the special committee is necessary as the move beyond merely addressing current shortages but preparing for the uncertainties we are witnessing globally.

He added that the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has created a lot of instability in Europe, and it is driving up inflation and causing supply chain disruptions.

"This makes relying on imported goods, including meat, harder and more expensive.

"On top of that, there is a growing wave of populist sentiments in some countries, pushing for reduced exports to protect their local needs. If these trends continue, access to imported meat could become even more restricted.

"By focusing on improving our SSL for meat, Malaysia can cushion itself against these external shocks.

"It's about ensuring that we have a more stable and reliable supply of locally produced meat, which can help us manage prices better and ensure our food security is not left vulnerable to global issues.

"This aligns well with the long-term goals of the National Agrofood Policy (NAP) 2.0, further underscoring the committee's critical role in the nation's agricultural strategy," he told the New Straits Times.

Earlier today, the Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the ministry would establish a special committee to address the country's low SSL of ruminant meat, which is only 20 per cent. (Link: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/1117092/govt-set-special-comm...)

He said the committee would be chaired by ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak.

He said the focus would be on ensuring sufficient supplies, as outlined in the National Agrofood Policy 2021-2030.

He said geopolitical issues in agriculture were often closely linked to national sovereignty, where control over food resources is considered more critical than physical security.

Asked on the single enforcement agency to be established to oversee the agro-food sector in Malaysia, as announced by Mohamad, Bakri said the move would strengthen enforcement and regulation in the agri-food sector.

"With over 2,000 officers and 14 laws in play, this integration should help cut out red tape hurdles, making operations smoother and more efficient.

"It is about being able to tackle issues like smuggling and leaks in the system more effectively by improving coordination."

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