Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is setting its sights on reducing Malaysia's grain corn imports by at least 30 percent by the year 2030. This ambitious goal aims to be achieved through a substantial expansion of cultivation areas across the country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu revealed that 15 private companies have shown interest in participating in a pilot project in Perlis, which will cover more than 2,000 hectares. The ministry plans to engage with agencies such as FELDA and FELCRA to amplify corn plantations, as corn is a critical ingredient in livestock and fish feed.

Minister Mohamad Sabu also mentioned the government's intention to offer various incentives, including potential tax reductions, to encourage more industry players to join the initiative. This move comes in response to the high initial costs associated with grain corn cultivation.

Beyond corn, the ministry is conducting research on innovative livestock feed formulations. This includes utilizing palm waste and exploring alternative protein sources such as Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, with the goal of stabilizing the operating costs in the livestock industry.