malaysiang
JASIN: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) is considering establishing a Southern Integrated Agricultural Development Area (IADA) to better support paddy farmers in Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Johor. Its Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, highlighted that the Southern IADA would enhance water management and organise paddy cultivation across these states, improving conditions for local farmers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Sabu noted that most paddy farmers in the region still rely on rainfall for irrigation due to incomplete infrastructure. This area currently lacks a designated IADA to assist them, as it lies outside the traditional rice bowl regions. He made these remarks during the announcement of the new MARDI MR 326 rice variety, an event officiated by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh at the As-Syakirin Mosque grounds in Kampung Sempang.
Mohamad Sabu also shared that MAFS is seeking additional government funds to enhance drainage infrastructure in areas beyo
nd the main rice-growing regions. He emphasised the importance of developing efficient drainage systems in these areas to prepare the country for the increasing threats posed by climate change.
He further revealed that he has engaged in multiple discussions with the Sabah and Sarawak governments about the possibility of establishing new rice bowl areas in these states. He expressed satisfaction that the Sarawak government has allocated RM500 million in its Budget 2025 to enhance paddy infrastructure throughout the state.
The MR 326 variety, named Kesidang, is a new rice strain developed by MARDI. It aims to boost yields and provide an alternative to existing varieties, particularly in regions outside the traditional rice bowl areas. MR 326 is produced through the crossbreeding of SPD 175 and MR 255, and it is classified as a medium-height variety with a maturity period of approximately 118 to 120 days after planting.
