Measures taken to modernise agro sector, ensure food security

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THE government has introduced measures to modernise the agriculture sector, increase self-sufficiency and ensure food security, including allocating RM190.8 million under the National Food Security Programme to improve irrigation infrastructure.

BOOSTING AQUACULTURE INDUSTRY: A total of 47 entrepreneurship training programmes in aquaculture industry held in first seven months of this year. — Bernama file photo

According to the Economic Report 2010/2011, since July, a total of RM75.9 million had been injected into the programme and benefiting nearly 8,345 farmers.

For instance, it said, to enhance irrigation facilities at the Besut paddy irrigation scheme, the government implemented the construction of Paya Peda  Dam Project, expected to be completed by 2014.

It said that during the first seven months of this year, 47 entrepreneurship training programmes in aquaculture industry were held and benefiting almost 800 participants.

“Efforts were also taken to implement the incubator programme to train and guide youths and graduates to be successful entrepreneurs,” the report said.

An incubator centre in Kuala Kedah was under construction and expected to be completed by April next year, it said.

To facilitate exports of agriculture produce, the government had also upgraded  the country’s air  cargo  facilities, it said.

MASKargo upgraded its cargo facilities at the KL International Airport by expanding the warehouse area by about 5,700 square metres as well as introducing various IT initiatives to increase efficiency and to comply with the international standards, it said. — Bernama