2024 AGRICULTURAL CENSUS SHOWS PROMISING PARTICIPATION 

ALOR GAJAH, July 17 (Bernama) -- Some 110,000 farmers and individuals involved in the agricultural sector have been successfully identified nationwide during the 11-day 2024 Agricultural Census, which commenced on July 7.

Chief Statistician Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin, who is also Census Commissioner said out of this, 1,486 farmers were actively engaged in agricultural activities in Melaka.

“In general, the Agricultural Census has surpassed 10 per cent participation nationwide... Some states, like Penang, have achieved a remarkable farming census rate of around 13 per cent, while others have reached up to 6 per cent,” he said during a working visit at NonehCekgu in Taboh Naning.

Mohd Uzir  said the 2024 Agricultural Census covers agriculture, fisheries, livestock and crop sectors and is expected to continue for four months until October, while also emphasising the importance of farmers providing accurate information to ensure precise data collection.

He said the critical role of census findings in driving improvements in Malaysia's agricultural industry, aiming to attract more young individuals to engage in farming activities.

Mohd Uzir said the agricultural census provides valuable insights into the use of modern technology across agricultural sectors and identifies challenges faced by farmers, including issues with insufficient local production of certain vegetables and fruits, leading to reliance on imports.

“We want a sustainable agricultural industry that positions Malaysia as a leading producer. Our focus is shifting from upstream to downstream activities, fostering new industries and creating job opportunities,” he affirmed.

It was reported previously that over 1.3 million residences are expected to participate in the 2024 Agricultural Census, involving more than 5,000 officers from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). 

On his visit to NonehCekgu, Mohd Uzir said a total of 200,000 pineapples were planted across an area of ​​8.09 hectares in the nearby fields, with two pineapple varieties planted, 'Crystal Honey' and 'MD2'.

He said the pineapple planting industry is currently in high demand due to the production of health and personal care products based on the fruit, which has also received positive reception among consumers both domestically and internationally.

-- BERNAMA