National Agro-Food Policy to be tabled at cabinet meeting on Sept 28

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KUALA LUMPUR: The National Agro-Food Policy (2011-2020) will be tabled at the cabinet meeting on Sept 28 for approval.

Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Noh Omar said the policy was drawn up to give focus to the agro-food sector’s development in ensuring sufficient food supply and to improving food processing and increasing high-value agriculture exports.

“The aim is also to increase food production and people’ income, besides avoiding any food crisis in the country.

“This is in line with the Government Transformation Programme, New Economic Model and Economic Transformation Programme as the prime foundation for the country’s development towards achieving Vision 2020, turning Malaysia into a high-income nation,” he said after opening the My Agro exposition, here, yesterday. — Bernama

Noh said the policy would be a guideline not only for the government, but also for the private sector in making the agro-food industry competitve and sustainable.

“Today, the agriculture sector cannot depend solely on the government but also needs the private sector’s involvement to speed up its development.”

On the setting up of the National Seed Council, Noh said it had been approved to focus on the value chain to raise seed production.

Among the council’s functions is monitoring and overseeing not only seed production for crops but also the breeds for the livestock industry towards reducing dependency on imported ones.

My Agro 2011, held at the Matrade Exhibition and Convention Centre, is an agritrade and agro-based industry exposition held for the first time. The theme is “Strengthening AgriBusiness”.

The four-day event provides a business-to-business platform for those involved in the agricultutre industry and acts as a one-stop centre for agriculture entrepreneurs, investors and enthusiasts to meet, exhibit and promote their trade. — Bernama