JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor government is planning to expand padi fields by 80 hectares over the next two years to increase rice production and improve the nation’s self-sufficiency ratio (SSR).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry, and Rural Development Committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip announced that the expansion will cover 30 hectares in Kahang, Kluang, and 50 hectares in Sungai Balang, Muar, with a budget allocation of RM2 million. The 30-hectare site in Kahang is projected to yield up to 80 tonnes of padi per season. Meanwhile, the additional 50 hectares in Sungai Balang will bring Johor’s total active padi fields to 1,693 hectares, with an expected output of 240 tonnes per season. The produce from this expansion is intended primarily for the domestic market.

Zahari emphasized that although Johor’s padi fields are not part of the national granary scheme, the state government is committed to enhancing rice production and achieving self-sufficiency. Johor aims to surpass the national average in padi productivity per hectare, and the possibility of opening more padi fields remains if necessary.

Furthermore, Zahari discussed the Jelajah Orang Johor (JOJ)@DUN Parit Raja programme, which aims to facilitate direct interaction between the public and state leaders. This initiative allows residents to meet with the Menteri Besar, state executive councillors, and government agency representatives to discuss local issues. The JOJ@DUN Parit Raja event is the second of its kind, following the inaugural event in Pontian last month, and there are plans to expand the programme to all 56 state constituencies in Johor.