Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has said that the government will soon introduce a flexible ceiling price for selected food items, as one of the various measures to boost the country’s food security. 

Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri explained that the ceiling price of the food items will be adjusted according to changes in the costs of various inputs in the supply chain. He added that this move also aligns with the government’s plan to provide direct and targeted assistance to those in need. 

In addition to introducing a flexible ceiling price, the prime minister stated that the government will also seek to enhance the nation’s food security by increasing the land size for agricultural use. “This is to reduce dependence on food imports. This matter will be further discussed in a meeting with the Menteri Besar and Chief Ministers soon,” he said, adding that the process will involve close collaboration between the federal and state governments.  

Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri further stated that the government will also strive to expand the agro-food ecosystem. This will see government investment companies (GICs), government-linked investment companies (GLICs), and government agencies collaborating to lead the supply chain in the ecosystem. Ultimately, this coordination is aimed at keeping the quality, quantity, and production of food at the optimum level.

“For example, the supply and price of chicken can be controlled if the relevant agencies were involved in the chicken breeding industry ecosystem right from supplying chicks, chicken feed, transportation, marketing, and so on,” the prime minister elaborated.

Another initiative to enhance Malaysia’s food security is the government’s move to focus on modernisation efforts and smart agriculture to increase agricultural production. “This initiative will be supported through efforts to consolidate farmland, idle land, and waqf land,” said Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri, adding that the government will enhance public-private cooperation in implementing the measures.

The prime minister also noted that the government will continue to encourage contract farming programmes to ensure that agro-products remain marketable. Finally, he highlighted that the government is committed to carrying out research to identify other viable and potential approaches to ensure a sustainable food security ecosystem for the nation.

(Sources: Malay Mail, Prime Minister’s Office of Malaysia)

• TAGS:
• Agriculture
• Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob
• Flexible Ceiling Price
• Food Security
• Prime Minister