Kedah Welcomes Sarawak’s Bid to Become Rice Bowl by 2030

ALOR STAR: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has welcomed Sarawak’s ambition to become the nation’s new “rice bowl” by 2030, describing it as a move that would strengthen Malaysia’s food security.

He said Kedah currently produces about 60% of national rice demand, with the balance met through imports. Even with contributions from states like Kelantan, Terengganu and Selangor, output remains insufficient.

Rice Bowl

“If Sarawak can boost production, it will help reduce imports. This is a very good move, especially since Sarawak still has vast land available,” Sanusi said after officiating the state-level Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen’s Day today.

He added that if Sarawak eventually surpasses Kedah, the state could diversify its land use for industries with higher economic returns, while still pursuing initiatives to raise padi yields.

Business News