Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to Ensure Amendments to Paddy and Rice Control Act are Completed and Enforced This Year
Minister’s Commitment to Strengthen Enforcement to Curb Conversion of Local Rice into Imported Rice
Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, has reiterated the ministry’s commitment to ensure that amendments to the Paddy and Rice Control Act (Act 522) are completed and enforced this year. The amendments aim to strengthen enforcement to curb the conversion of local rice into imported rice.
Research-Informed Approach
The minister emphasized that the amendment will take into account research conducted by the Malaysian Competition Commission (MyCC) on the issue of paddy and rice. "We will amend this act by taking recommendations by MyCC involved in conducting investigations on the issue of paddy and rice. From there, we will make the necessary changes to overcome the issue, including strengthening monitoring as well as taking action against those who violate the law," he said.
Time Target for Completion
The minister did not set a specific timeline for the completion of the amendment, but emphasized that the ministry is working towards ensuring that the changes are implemented this year.
Tilapia Aquaculture Aspire Programme
In a separate development, Mohamad Sabu launched the Tilapia Aquaculture Aspire Programme, an initiative by Agrobank to promote aquaculture education and entrepreneurship among school students. The programme targets 20 selected schools and provides them with an 18 square foot pond and 1,500 tilapia fry, which can be harvested within three months and generate income for the school.
School Money Assistance and Donations
The minister also presented school money assistance and donations worth RM150 to 200 students at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Jalan Kebun, along with necessities such as school bags, stationery, and water bottles. The ceremony was attended by Agrobank’s chief executive officer, Datuk Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main objective of the amendments to the Paddy and Rice Control Act?
A: The main objective is to strengthen enforcement to curb the conversion of local rice into imported rice.
Q: How will the ministry ensure the completion of the amendments?
A: The ministry will take into account research conducted by the Malaysian Competition Commission (MyCC) and make necessary changes to overcome the issue, including strengthening monitoring and taking action against those who violate the law.
Q: What is the Tilapia Aquaculture Aspire Programme?
A: The programme is an initiative by Agrobank to promote aquaculture education and entrepreneurship among school students, providing them with an 18 square foot pond and 1,500 tilapia fry to generate income for the school.