Serdang: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is set to implement a 'sandbox' approach in partnership with local authorities (PBT) to synchronize legal and regulatory frameworks for emerging business models in the agrifood sector.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Secretary-General Datuk Seri Isham Ishak emphasized the importance of this approach to develop new guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs) effectively, thereby fostering the growth potential of local entrepreneurs. Isham highlighted the significant demand for these business models and the necessity to align legal aspects with local authorities for national implementation.
The sandbox approach is designed to navigate and resolve various legal and regulatory challenges, allowing for flexibility in operations and opening up new opportunities for value creation. This announcement was made during the launch of the Integrated Management Autonomous Network (IMAN) digital system, an AI platform by DAEM Sdn Bhd that facilitates meat orders via WhatsApp. The event was part of the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism (MAHA) exhibition at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS).
Prominent attendees included Department of Veterinary Services director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Noor Hisham Mohd Haron, and DAEM co-founders, celebrity Alif Satar and Muhammad Radhi Azizan. Isham assured that while regulations would be made more flexible, adherence to food safety, quality, and Halal status requirements would remain uncompromised to maintain public confidence in the safety and quality of local products.
Reflecting on the success of MAHA 2026, which concludes tomorrow, Isham noted the high visitor turnout and the effective promotion of the national food security agenda. The event surpassed its initial investment target of RM8 billion, reaching RM9.3 billion, with expectations to exceed RM10 billion by the final day. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to attend the closing ceremony tomorrow, underscoring the agricultural sector's role as a strategic pillar in achieving national food security objectives.