MAFS working on measures to deal with effects of El Nino

KOTA KINABALU: The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (MAFS) is formulating mitigation measures with its agencies and departments to deal with the potential adverse effects of the El Nino phenomenon.

Its deputy minister Chan Foong Hin said those measures would target the fisheries, aquaculture, crops and livestock sectors. He said this was necessary following a forecast by the Malaysian Meteorological Department on the Southwest monsoon from May 15 until until September, which will result in reduced rainfall.

"Our monitoring efforts are being expanded to rice production areas managed by the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA), Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) and Integrated Agricultural Development Area (IADA).

"The primary objective is to ensure adequate water supply for the production of rice and vegetables nationwide," he said during the KK Waterfront Lions Club harvest festival here last night.

Chan, who is Kota Kinabalu member of parliament, said government agencies which are taking charge of padi farming should keep tabs on weather updates.

In Kedah, MADA is taking measures to deal the El Nino phenomenon by maximising the use of pump stations to save water from the dam and setting up mobile pumps to supply water to highlands and problem areas.

He also urged farmers to adapt their planting strategies to cope with the anticipated drier weather conditions.

"Farmer cooperation in managing water is important to ensure water supply can be distributed perfectly and avoid wastage.

"They are also advised to expedite their activities and follow the padi planting schedule that has been issued.

"They are recommended to carry out wet rotation and planting activities according to the phases that have been set."