PETALING JAYA: Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan today called for the strengthening of the agriculture, plantations and fisheries sector as part of efforts to mitigate the economic impact of Covid-19 and the movement control order (MCO).
In a statement, Mohamad said strengthening these sectors would not only reduce Malaysia’s import bills but also ensure food security and provide employment opportunities.
He said Bank Negara Malaysia expects the economy to be impaired by output loss due to disruptions to the commodity supply, while many are worried that the country is headed for a severe depression.
“This could be a recession that will last longer than expected, leading to depression and stagflation.
“While there are many external factors beyond our control causing this disruption to our economy and livelihood, there are areas we can focus on to mitigate the impact of such a downturn.”
One such area, he said, was the local food economy. This would entail ensuring sustainable production to preserve food security.
The country, he said, was blessed with ample resources, so the agriculture and agro-industry should be developed with as much self-sufficiency as possible.
Noting that Malaysia is an importer of rice and a nett importer of wheat, seafood, beef, vegetables, sugar and many other products, he said import replacement strategies need to be put in place.
“Focus and develop animal husbandry and related animal feed industry, other types of food production and processing covering all aspects of upstream and downstream activities.
“Felda will have a major role to play in this. Diversifying their crops and maximising yield will open new avenues for employment and bring forth a rebirth of Felda as a major agriculture powerhouse beyond just palm oil.”
The fisheries sector, he said, also needs to reach its true potential.
He noted that while Malaysia has the 29th longest coastline in the world and is 16th in terms of fish caught from captured fisheries, it is still a nett importer of fishery products.
Mohamad also spoke of a need to optimise the use of scientific knowledge and technological advancements in aquaculture.
The logistics industry, including ports, need to be optimised to enhance their efficiency and reduce wastage.
“Statistically, post-harvest wastage in the handling of fruits and vegetables can be as high as 20% in Malaysia.”
Post-Covid-19, Mohamad said, there will be an increase in demand for natural resources including rubber, palm oil, petroleum and natural gas products.
“Keeping these industries running and expanding them will create new opportunities and jobs.
“We must address these issues methodically and seriously to continue to keep Malaysians employed and provide food on the table.” - FMT
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