Kuala lumpur: The Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK) has announced plans to increase productivity in the national agri-commodity sector by enhancing upstream production efficiency, strengthening the downstream value chain, and adopting sustainable practices to address the challenging global economic landscape expected in 2026. Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad highlighted that geopolitical tensions, climate change, global commodity price fluctuations, and new international trade regulations with stringent sustainability requirements are current challenges for the country's agri-commodity sector.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, KPK's first focus involves improving upstream production efficiency, with an emphasis on achieving higher yield per hectare for key commodities such as oil palm, rubber, cocoa, and pepper. The second focus is on strengthening the downstream value chain to reduce reliance on raw commodity exports and enhance research and development for producing high-value downstream products competitive in the international market.

Noraini stressed the importance of adopting best practices and adhering to sustainability standards, including the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification, to ensure global recognition and acceptance of the country's commodities. She emphasized that Malaysian commodities should be produced responsibly to counter trade discrimination and highlighted the importance of clear policies and action plans with measurable key performance indicators.

The minister also addressed the need to improve the living standards and income of smallholders, stating that this remains KPK's top agenda. She urged for an integrated approach to ensure a stable market and stronger financial returns, emphasizing government intervention through support initiatives like the BUDI MADANI subsidy assistance program to sustain smallholders' livelihoods.

Noraini called for a culture of good governance within KPK, discouraging silo work culture and promoting close coordination, data and expertise sharing, and complementary strategic implementation. The event also featured the ministry-level Ihya Ramadan Programme, which included Ramadan talks, tadarus Quran sessions, and the distribution of dates and bubur lambuk. Attendees included KPK secretary-general Datuk Yusran Shah Mohd Yusof and over 300 ministry staff.