Malaysia Stresses Innovation, AI To Boost Food System At 10th FSMM In South Korea

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 11 (Bernama) -- Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu highlighted the critical role of innovation and artificial intelligence (AI) technology in strengthening the food system.

He shared this during a roundtable session at the 10th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Food Security Ministerial Meeting (10th FSMM), held yesterday in Incheon, South Korea.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) said that Mohamad, who led the Malaysian delegation, also underscored the need to identify common priorities and enhance regional cooperation, to achieve sustainable food security throughout the region.

“In the global context, Malaysia is deeply concerned about the worsening world food security situation caused by conflicts, climate disasters, and economic instability. The ongoing hunger crises and severe violations of international law, and the human right to food in Sudan and Gaza, are particularly alarming.

“Malaysia stands firmly with the international community in condemning these actions, and urges enhanced distribution of humanitarian aid and the immediate implementation of relief efforts,” the ministry said in a statement, today.

Themed ‘Building a Sustainable Tomorrow', the 10th FSMM focuses on three priorities: Connect, Innovate, and Prosper. The meeting provides a vital platform to exchange insights on agricultural innovation, and foster collaboration towards sustainable food security.

Discussions highlighted key aspects, such as sustainability, smart innovation, and the alignment of global connectivity with the priorities of APEC economies, all aimed at developing a resilient and sustainable food system.

The ministry also said that on the sidelines of the meeting, Mohamad paid a courtesy call to South Korea’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Song Mi-ryung, underscoring both countries’ commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation in the agricultural sector.

Among the key topics discussed were opportunities for collaboration in research and modernisation of agriculture, as well as human capital development. This includes areas such as the registration and monitoring of biopesticides, and the use of AI technology for early detection of pest attacks, particularly on paddy crops.

Mohamad also extended an invitation to South Korea to participate in the High-Level Advisory Group (HLAG2025) meeting, held alongside the 4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4) and the 76th International Executive Council (IEC) Meeting of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), scheduled for this September in Kuala Lumpur.

-- BERNAMA