KPKM TO ENSURE SUFFICIENT NATIONAL FOOD STOCKPILE DURING MONSOON SEASON

KOTA BHARU, Oct 29 (Bernama) — The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) will ensure that the country's food stockpile is adequate to face the monsoon season which is expected to hit several states including Kelantan and Terengganu.

KPKM secretary-general, Datuk Seri Isham Ishak said other states that are not affected by floods can help in terms of balancing food needs.

He said the rice stocks stored nationwide can cover the people's needs for a period of between five and seven months in the event of a major disaster that affects the food supply.

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“For rice alone, we have over 200 million metric tonnes of buffer stock to ensure adequate supply in the event of an emergency or logistical disruption due to flooding.

“KPKM has also identified areas at high risk of flooding and carried out cleaning and maintenance work on the drainage system through KADA to reduce the impact of damage to padi growers and farmers,” he told reporters after officiating the Kemubu Agricultural Development Board 2024 Excellent Service Awards Ceremony, here today.

Isham said that so far, RM17 million from the RM20 million allocation has been spent to clean up blocked drainage areas and fallen trees, while the remaining RM3 million will be used to continue cleaning work in flood hotspots.

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At the same time, KPKM has also drawn up post-flood initiatives to help farmers regenerate income through alternative agricultural activities such as growing chillies in polybags which are easier to manage and less risky.

He said the approach is not just about providing temporary financial assistance, but also helping flood victims restore family economy through small-scale agricultural activities that yield quick returns.

-- BERNAMA