The government has approved RM45.6 million for a new MADA rice mill in Megat Dewa, aiming to boost efficiency and farmer benefits in the paddy sector

JERLUN: The government has approved an allocation of RM45.6 million for the development of a rice mill by the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA).

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the mill will be built in Megat Dewa, near here.

He stated the new facility reflects the government’s commitment to a more organised and competitive production chain.

“The new mill will ensure that the collection, processing and production of rice are carried out efficiently, increasing the value-added of paddy yields and providing greater benefits to farmers, particularly by reducing reliance on middlemen,” he said.

Mohamad said this at a ceremony for the Paddy Crop Takaful Scheme contributions and a meeting with farmers’ leaders in the MADA area.

For 2026, MADA is targeting an average paddy yield of 6.1 tonnes per hectare through field modernisation and infrastructure improvements.

The ministry is also stepping up efforts to increase the country’s rice self-sufficiency rate from 52.6% nationwide to 70% by 2030.

“The ministry will also implement the 3M approach – build, upgrade and maintain – through the Agricultural Infrastructure Strengthening Master Plan 2026-2040,” he added.

This plan will place special focus on the paddy subsector to address ageing infrastructure.

This year, the ministry will focus on maintaining irrigation and drainage systems in 14 rice bowl and 13 non-rice bowl areas.

It is targeting works along 2,000 kilometres of irrigation canals and upgrading 1,346 km of agricultural roads.

“The overall direction this year is focused on ensuring that the country’s agriculture and agri-food sectors remain sovereign, resilient and capable of facing future uncertainties,” Mohamad said.

 The Sun Malaysia