KPKM LEADS REVERSE INVESTMENT DRIVE TO SAFEGUARD COUNTRY’S FOOD SUPPLY - MOHAMAD SABU

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is spearheading a reverse investment approach this year as a strategic move to safeguard the country’s supply of critical food commodities.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the government must move beyond short-term, reactive measures and adopt strategic steps to secure the nation’s food supply chain.

“This approach will target key sectors, namely cattle, rice, dairy and seeds and breeds, seen as vital to the national food chain and must be protected from global supply disruptions.

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“In line with this, KPKM will adopt a reverse investment approach this year to safeguard the supply of the nation’s critical food commodities,” he said during the ministry’s 2026 New Year Address today.

The reverse investment approach in agriculture involves direct government or private investment in food production, covering land, technology, and seeds, to reduce import dependence and ensure a stable, secure, and sustainable food supply amid market or climate disruptions.

Mohamad said KPKM welcomes government-linked companies and government investment firms as strategic partners to secure national stakes in the critical supply chain.

“Involvement from this sector is key to securing national stakes in the critical supply chain, boosting food sovereignty and ensuring Malaysia’s food system remains resilient in the long term,” he said.

He said the reverse investment strategy aims not to replace local farmers but to provide a strategic buffer, ensuring supply chain sustainability during unforeseen events, including natural disasters.

“This reverse investment will serve as a strategic buffer to keep the supply chain stable during unforeseen shocks, with each investment implemented gradually, prudently and in the national interest,” he said.

He said KPKM is also focusing on domestic investment to boost the capacity and competitiveness of the agri-food sector.

The five strategic focuses include developing the aquaculture industry, using Geographic Information Systems in production, grain corn cultivation, expanding pineapple farming, and boosting domestic seed and breed production.

“Domestic investment in these five priority areas is vital to strengthen local production, reduce reliance on external sources and build a more resilient and sustainable agri-food sector,” he said.

Meanwhile, KPKM secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak said the reverse investment strategy acts as a national safeguard against crises or disasters.

“In preparation for any disaster, we have set up reverse investment measures, like growing rice abroad, so supplies are available if needed. Malaysia can cultivate it overseas and import it back into the country,” he added.

-- BERNAMA