MOHAMAD CALLS ON MAFS STAFF TO ADOPT VERTICAL FARMING AT HOME

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) staff have been urged to implement the vertical farming initiative at home, as a means to strengthen food security at the community level.

Its Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said that the initiative aims not only to promote the use of limited home space for agricultural activities but also to serve as a symbolic effort by the ministry to ‘walk the talk’, in introducing modern farming techniques which the public can emulate.

Vertical farming, which involves growing crops in stacked layers, or on vertically inclined surfaces, provides a space-efficient alternative to traditional farming methods, making it ideal for areas with limited land availability.

“If every ministry staff member adopts vertical farming in their homes, it will inspire the public to participate in efforts to improve the nation’s food security, through sustainable urban agriculture,” he said.

“I am confident that, with support from all parties, this initiative will make a significant impact, positioning the ministry as a role model for the people,” he said when delivering his 2025 New Year’s message to the ministry staff here today.

He also urged all ministry staff to uphold the principles of integrity, honesty, and efficiency, as these are the cornerstones of quality service and organisational excellence.

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“I am confident that, with the integrity of our team, we can overcome future challenges, ensuring that the national food security agenda remains a top priority.

“Our actions must always be holistic and proactive, to enhance the effectiveness of service delivery,” he added.

Highlighting the ministry’s achievements over the past year, Mohamad noted that one of the most notable successes, a shared source of pride, was the implementation of the MADANI Agro Sale programme.

He disclosed that in 2024, a total of 7,043 programmes were successfully conducted nationwide, surpassing the initial target of 5,000.

The programme spans 900 locations in government complexes, and 2,132 locations in high-density B40 housing areas, making it one of the most effective initiatives in ensuring access to quality, affordable food supplies, while strengthening the economy of farmers, breeders, and fishermen.

“The overwhelming response, throughout the implementation of this programme, underscores the critical role the ministry plays in connecting agricultural products with the public, while also ensuring sustainable and resilient food security,” he said.

He added that the MADANI Agro Sale programme would continue this year, with the support of government allocations, enabling the implementation of more targeted initiatives to benefit the agricultural community, and contributing to the overall well-being of the country.

--BERNAMA