Kuala lumpur: The Kedah government is seeking approval from the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM) to produce its own padi seeds as a measure to tackle ongoing supply shortages.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor highlighted the persistent challenges faced by farmers in Kedah due to padi seed shortages which have adversely impacted crop yields. He noted that the issues range from a total lack of seeds to insufficient supply and failures in seed growth. Additionally, there have been shortages of subsidised seeds, all of which exacerbate the problem.

Muhammad Sanusi emphasized the importance of balancing regulatory frameworks with the practical knowledge and experience of local farmers, who have been cultivating padi for decades. He shared these insights with reporters following the Kedah State Legislative Assembly sitting.

Earlier, the assembly approved a motion proposed by Kota Siputeh assemblyman Mohd Ashraf Mustaqim Badrul Munir for a community-based padi seed development programme. This initiative aims to empower local farmers in seed production.

Currently, the state government is conducting a pilot project on padi seed planting across 20.5 hectares in Kampung Sungai Mati, Tobiar, Pendang. Muhammad Sanusi mentioned that the results of this project will be submitted to the KPKM, with hopes that the seeds produced will alleviate shortages and improve yield outcomes. He further clarified that the intention of the pilot project is to enhance the existing system rather than contest any established protocols.