Cabinet Committee Mulls National Ruminant Board To Boost Food Security

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 24 (Bernama) -- The Cabinet Committee on National Food Security Policy (JKKMN) has reviewed strategies to boost the self-sufficiency of the country’s livestock sector through the proposed establishment of the National Ruminant Board, while finalising a new policy aimed at strengthening national food security.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the proposal to establish the National Ruminant Board followed a feasibility study by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) to enhance the ruminant industry and reduce dependence on imports.

He said the government was finalising a comprehensive new policy to address the increasingly complex food security challenges through an integrated, evidence-based and mission-driven approach.

“This policy aims to increase the efficiency of agricultural and agrofood production, ensure system sustainability, strengthen regional food diplomacy, promote healthy eating habits and drive inclusive economic growth.

“To ensure effective implementation, the policy will be supported by specific legislation to coordinate actions across various agencies and ministries, thereby strengthening governance towards sustainable and comprehensive national food security,” he said in a statement today.

Mohamad said policy planning would also be strengthened through the digital Integrated Agricultural Statistics System (Tanistats) initiative, which will enhance national data sharing to spur agricultural sector growth.

“Tanistats will serve as an important platform to empower policy and planning for the agricultural sector, ensuring that the nation’s food security can be continuously strengthened,” he said.

Mohamad said the JKKMN Meeting No. 2/2025, chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Oct 22, also focused on revitalising agricultural sector growth and improving the livelihoods of farmers and livestock breeders.

“The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM) remains committed to formulating progressive policies and initiatives to secure the future of the nation’s agriculture and food security,” he said.

-- BERNAMA