Johor has set ambitious targets to increase its output in key agricultural sectors to strengthen food security by 2027. The region aims for a 33% rise in fruit and vegetable production, a 62% expansion in aquaculture, and a 34.5% growth in ruminant livestock, according to Datuk Zahari Sarip, the chairman of the state agriculture, agro-based industry, and rural development committee.
A total of approximately $14.5 million (RM68 million) has been allocated to agriculture, with $5.1 million (RM24 million) from Johor's state government and over $9.4 million (RM44 million) from the Federal Government, funneled through the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry. These funds support various programs and incentives aimed at modernizing and strengthening Johor's agricultural sector, in line with its goal to enhance national food security.
Zahari emphasized the state's focus on adopting advanced technologies such as mechanization, automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) systems through the Smart Agriculture and Agricultural Mechanization program. Efforts to upgrade Permanent Food Production Parks (TKPM) in Johor with modern technology aim to increase both the quantity and quality of agricultural output. Currently, there are nine TKPMs spread over 511.95 hectares in five districts, undergoing development to incorporate IoT systems and mechanization.
This initiative, involving 86 entrepreneurs, has already yielded 8,618 metric tonnes of fruits and vegetables valued at approximately $5.1 million (RM24 million). By the third quarter of 2024, an additional 7,467 metric tonnes of produce, worth about $3.6 million (RM17 million), is expected to be harvested.
Source: The Star