As of February 3, Malaysia’s physical rice stock stood at 1.09 million metric tonnes, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu confirmed. This includes a 200,000-tonne buffer stock and 889,285 tonnes of trade stock, forming part of measures to secure food supply during disasters.
Mohamad shared the details in response to a parliamentary question from Zakri Hassan (PN-Kangar) on disaster preparedness. He highlighted several initiatives to strengthen national rice security.
A pilot project is underway to cultivate rice across five planting cycles over two years, covering 3,000 hectares in phases from 2024 within the Malaysian Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) area. The ministry is also enhancing the agricultural water management system through public-private partnerships, including the Jeniang Phase II Water Transfer Scheme, designed to optimise water supply during floods and droughts.
Additionally, the Rice Crop Disaster Fund provides immediate aid to farmers affected by natural disasters or crop diseases. In 2025, RM5.04 million was disbursed to 2,255 farmers, covering 3,253.4 hectares of damaged padi fields. The ministry is also boosting research and expanding early warning systems for pest attacks, working with the Malaysian Meteorological Department and strengthening ties with major food-supplying countries.
Regarding Perlis, Mohamad said aid for farmers affected by floods and drought will follow verification procedures. Last year, 265 farmers were impacted by floods affecting 333.82 hectares of padi fields, and applications for RM292,426 in assistance will be discussed at a Master Committee Meeting on March 6. A drought last February affected approximately 300 hectares, with on-site assessments currently in progress.
Mohamad emphasised that any delays in aid distribution are due to careful verification to ensure that support reaches eligible recipients.
