This page features a compilation and selection of Malaysia seed industry news briefs, summaries and leads, with an emphasis on events that impact or affect provinces, regions, counties, cities and locales in Malaysia.
The news covers trends and events regarding seed regulation, testing, legislation, phytosanitary issues, intellectual property rights, biotechnology (genomics, gene-editing) plant breeding, agronomy and cropping, with original sources linked.
This page will be updated throughout the year, with most recent briefs listed first.
Support for Palm Oil Growers with Sustainability Initiatives: October 29: Malaysia is intensifying efforts to enhance palm oil smallholders' operational efficiency and yields nationwide, especially in Sabah and Sarawak, through government-supported replanting, quality seeds, mechanization, and subsidies. The government will also fully cover the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification costs for independent smallholders which allows their product to fetch a premium in the export market. Source.
IP Protection for Musang King Durian Renewed: September 23: Malaysia’s Intellectual Property Corporation has extended intellectual property protection for the iconic Musang King durian until 2034, safeguarding its Geographical Indication status. This renewal, noted by Agriculture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, helps prevent misuse of the Musang King name internationally, securing Malaysia’s brand and protecting local farmers. With fresh durian exports now permitted to China, Malaysian Musang King durians have gained premium market value, with last year's durian exports to China reaching USD 167 million. Source.
Severe Caterpillar Infestation Hits Paddy Fields in Perli: August 27: Paddy fields under the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) in Perlis are facing a severe infestation of leaf roller moth caterpillars, damaging crops and stunting growth. The infestation has affected around 700 hectares and reduced farmers' incomes by an estimated 40%. State officials are working with agricultural agencies to find solutions, as the caterpillars threaten further damage. Source
Malaysia Eyes Export of ‘Kampung’ Durians to China: August 27: The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is in talks with China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) to export fresh 'kampung' durians to meet high demand. If approved, the durians could be marketed in China by next season, with the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) and Farmers’ Organisation Authority (FOA) handling collection and export logistics. Malaysian durian exports have surged by 256.3% from 2018 to 2022. Source
Vegetable Farmers Struggle Amid Diesel Subsidy Cuts: July 23: The removal of blanket diesel subsidies in Malaysia has led to a 50% increase in fuel prices, causing significant challenges for vegetable farmers who rely heavily on machinery. The Malaysian Federation of Vegetable Farmers Association warns that at least 10% of its 6,000 members may switch crops or leave the industry due to rising costs and competition from cheaper imported vegetables. The government’s targeted subsidy system has been criticized for poor implementation, leaving many farmers without necessary support, and prompting calls for production incentives to offset the increased expenses. More details here
Urban Farming Initiatives in Malaysia Aim to Enhance Food Security: June 17: In response to recent global supply chain disruptions, Malaysia is promoting urban farming to strengthen food security and develop new agricultural entrepreneurs. The government, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has launched an urban agriculture program to increase food production and reduce costs, with successful projects like Universiti Putra Malaysia's Garden 8 demonstrating the potential for local market supply and community engagement. While urban farming has its benefits, experts stress the need for a balanced approach that includes technological innovation, supportive government policies, and collaboration to reduce Malaysia's heavy reliance on food imports and enhance self-sufficiency in essential food items. More details here
Heatwave Promises Bumper Durian and Mango Crops in Malaysia: May 3: The current heatwave in Southeast Asia is expected to boost Malaysia's durian and Harumanis mango yields, but it could negatively impact the country's key cash crop, oil palm. Durian farmers, particularly those growing the famous Musang King variety, are anticipating a bumper harvest due to the extreme heat, which enhances the aroma and flavor of the fruit. Similarly, Harumanis mangoes are thriving in the hotter conditions, with farmers expecting a higher yield and better quality. However, the intense heat is posing challenges, such as ensuring adequate water supply to prevent fruit damage. In contrast, oil palm production is likely to suffer as the trees require substantial water, which is difficult to provide during the prolonged dry spell. More details here
Urban Agriculture Program Targets Food Security: March 31: The government is considering an urban agriculture program aimed at enhancing food security, modeled after Singapore’s success. Dr. Juju Nakasha Jaafar from Universiti Putra Malaysia suggests this initiative is practical and should commence as soon as possible, with UPM ready to provide necessary data. Critics argue that urban agriculture may face challenges due to its small scale and regulatory issues, potentially affecting its effectiveness in improving self-sufficiency rates. More details here
Ample Rice Supply Amid Global Challenges: March 6: Malaysia's national rice stock totals 881,554 metric tonnes, sufficient for 4.41 months of consumption, according to Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. This stock includes various categories, with the largest being factory, wholesale, and retail stocks at 591,554 metric tonnes. The reserve comes amid global price hikes following export restrictions by major supplier India. Mohamad assured that the current reserves and a robust contingency plan would secure the nation's rice needs despite international market fluctuations. More details here
Urban Farming Initiative Expanded: February 26: Malaysia's Agriculture Department is expanding its 'kebuniti' community farm project to nine new urban locations, under the government’s urban agriculture development vision. This initiative aims to transform idle urban spaces into productive community farming hubs, enhancing food security and fostering a sense of community and environmental stewardship among urban dwellers. More details here
Revolutionizing Rice Farming for Climate Resilience: February 25: In Kampung Sungai Leman, farmers are adopting the NMR 152 rice seed, known for its exceptional yield of up to 10 tons per hectare and robust resistance to droughts, floods, and diseases. This innovation marks a significant step towards food security and environmental sustainability, aiming for a 30 percent increase in production quotas per state. Despite production challenges, collaborative efforts with the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry are crucial for national distribution. Beyond enhancing yields, research into NMR 152 and other rice varieties underscores the importance of science and collaboration in securing a sustainable, hunger-free future amidst climate change challenges. More details here
Monsoon Floods Affect Over 2,000 Farmers: January 20: Malaysia's north-east monsoon floods have impacted 2,095 agro-food farmers, affecting about 4,701 hectares. In Pahang, 72 fruit and vegetable farmers faced significant losses. Deputy Agriculture Minister, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, emphasized the need for affected farmers to register for aid. Assistance includes agricultural inputs and a plan to reintroduce corn cultivation to mitigate future losses. The government's proactive measures aim to support a swift recovery for the affected agricultural sector. More details here
Pepper Market Braces for Price Hike in 2024: January 2: Malaysia's pepper industry is set to experience a significant price increase in 2024, amidst a global reduction in pepper production. Sarawak, contributing over 95% of the nation's output, has seen its production decrease from 19,000 tonnes in 2022 to an estimated 17,000 tonnes in 2023. Many local farmers are transitioning to more profitable crops such as oil palm and durian due to historically low pepper prices. However, with the global supply shortfall and increased commodity prices, Malaysian pepper, especially the high-quality Sarawak variety, is expected to see a surge in its value. More details here
El Niño's Impact on Padi Farms: January 22: Malaysia's padi farmers, particularly in Kedah which accounts for 40% of the country's rice production, are facing severe challenges due to a prolonged dry spell and warmer weather resulting from El Nino. This has led to a cessation of fertilizing and watering in some areas to mitigate losses. The dry conditions have also heightened the risk of pest infestations, further threatening rice harvests. The Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) is proactively monitoring the situation, optimizing water usage, and advising farmers on efficient planting schedules to combat these challenges. More details here
Q4
Soil Health Key to Sustainable Agriculture: 21 Nov: A significant soil health crisis is underway, with about a third of global soils degraded and the risk of losing arable land within six decades. The country's key agricultural sectors, including palm oil, rubber, rice, and cocoa, are threatened by soil erosion, compaction, and loss of organic matter. This situation poses a serious challenge to Malaysia's food security and economic stability. Experts advocate for the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices and diverse farming methods to rejuvenate soil health, ensuring sustainable food production and aiding in climate change mitigation. Source
Padi Seed Supply and Pricing Issues: 15 Nov: Malaysia's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has directed agencies and padi seed manufacturers to address delays and overpricing in seed supply. Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu's directive targets key agricultural bodies following his inspection of seed production issues in Kedah. Manufacturers are now committed to immediate supply to Mada, with strict enforcement planned for areas outside Mada's control. The government insists on adherence to the set price of RM45 per 20 kg of padi seed, aiming to ensure the timely rice planting process. Source
White Rice Shortage Looming: 11 Nov: Malaysia is on the brink of a severe white rice shortage within five months, primarily due to unpredictable weather and the high cost of padi seeds. The erratic weather patterns, attributed to climate change, have disrupted the traditional farming schedules, allowing for only five harvests every two years. A critical shortage of padi seeds has led to soaring prices, significantly impacting the rice cultivation cycle and future yields. Farmers, particularly in the northern regions of Malaysia, are struggling to obtain certified seeds, with some forced to delay their planting seasons. The situation is exacerbated by allegations of suppliers manipulating seed prices and hoarding stocks, leading to calls for increased government oversight and action against errant suppliers. Source
Malaysia Urges Agricultural Co-ops to Strengthen Food Security: 20 Oct: The Cooperative Commission of Malaysia (SKM) is encouraging agricultural cooperatives to expand their businesses to bolster the country's food security. Deputy Executive Chairman Amran Abd Kadir stated that the government has allocated significant funding to assist cooperatives in this endeavor. The focus is on increasing the production of rice and other food supplies. Source
Malaysia Awaits China's Nod for Fresh Durian Exports: 07 Oct: Malaysia's Department of Agriculture is in talks with China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) to gain approval for exporting fresh whole durians to China. Currently, Malaysia can only export frozen durians in various forms, unlike Thailand and Vietnam, which have permission to export fresh durians. Source
Q3
Malaysia grapples with rice shortage amid global price surge: 10 Sep: Hypermarket chain Mydin has said that it is also experiencing a shortage in the supply of local rice in its outlets. The white rice shortage in Malaysia is primarily due to the country’s reliance on imports and the impact of export restrictions from India. Source
Malaysia eyes increased food production via Indian millets: August 1: Deputy Minister Saraswathy Kandasami of Malaysia's Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry revealed plans to bolster food production by procuring millets from Tamil Nadu. This move aims to tap into the enthusiasm of Malaysian youth for farming. Kandasami discussed agricultural technology with experts during her Tamil Nadu visit, with a focus on making farming more profitable. Malaysia, reliant on 60% food imports, seeks to amplify food production via cooperatives and technological innovations. Source.
Q2
Smallholding Rice Growers in Malaysia Call for Urgent Paddy Policy Reform: June 5: Smallholding rice growers in Malaysia are urging the government to reform the national paddy policy, alleging that state-picked companies are distributing poor-quality seeds while receiving substantial subsidies. PeSawah, the association representing paddy farmers, received complaints from growers in Penang, Kedah, and Negeri Sembilan about damaged or non-growing seeds, which could adversely affect yields and income for struggling families. The issue of poor seed quality has persisted for four years, with concerns raised about inadequate supply and exploitative pricing. The subsidized suppliers are chosen based on patronage, enjoying millions of ringgit in subsidies despite supplying subpar seeds. Source.
Heatwave in Malaysia Puts Farmers at Risk: June 25: A heatwave in Kota Tinggi, Johor, has raised concerns for farmers like Mr Naviin Thiagaran and his father, who grow crops in sweltering conditions. Amid the scorching temperatures, Mr Thiagaran experienced heat exhaustion and was rushed to the hospital with symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and nausea. Although he recovered after treatment, the incident has prompted him and his father to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from the extreme heat while farming. The heatwave has affected many parts of the country, highlighting the potential dangers faced by farmers working in such conditions. Source.
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Heatwave in Malaysia Leads to Crop Damage from Pest Infestations: June 1: As temperatures reach around 35°C across Malaysia, farmers are facing a challenging situation as up to 30% of their crops are damaged by pest infestations. Pests and mites are thriving in the hot and dry weather from May to August, causing significant losses for farmers. The pests have developed resistance to common pesticides, making it difficult to control their populations. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is suggested as a better approach, using pesticides only when necessary. The heatwave has accelerated insect growth rates, leading to a faster multiplication of pests and the spread of diseases in crops. Source.
CPTPP to give Malaysia access to American ag: Malaysia formally ratified the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) on September 30, 2022, becoming the ninth out of eleven countries to ratify the agreement. According to the USDA, “Malaysia’s Ministry of International Trade and Investment (MITI) expects the new agreement will increase total trade to US$656 billion by 2030 from US$481 billion in 2021. The CPTPP will expand Malaysia’s market access for agricultural goods with Canada, Mexico, and Peru, with whom Malaysia does not have existing agreements” More details here.
7th IASS: The 7th International Agriculture Students Symposium was held in Malaysia from 20 February to 1 March 2023, with the theme "Youth Involvement and Innovation for Food Security." The symposium was organized by the Faculty of Agriculture at Universiti Putra Malaysia and aimed to provide a platform for students from all over the world to share their knowledge and perspectives on agriculture and food issues. Benefits of attending the event included international networking opportunities, exposure to innovative ideas and experiences in agriculture, and the opportunity to receive an International Participation Certificate. More details.
Conglomerates critical in global palm market domination: February 15: A comprehensive article sheds light on some of the “prominent names in the plantation industry” in Nusantara nations of Malaysia and Indonesia. The article starts off by noting that under the Plantation and Commodity Ministry(MPIC), Malaysia’s “main commodities in the plantation sector include palm oil, rubber, timber, cocoa, pepper, kenaf and tobacco,” and that vital to the country’s economy is “the role of plantation industry players”, which is described as “critical in sustaining the country’s dominance in the global market, especially in palm oil production.” To find out about these players and key figures, visit, source.
2022 News
Farmers get green light to cultivate food crops on gov land: July 16: Farmers in Melaka have been given the go-ahead to cultivate certain cash crops on unused government land in Melaka. Permission was granted to help ensure adequate food supply. Source.
Cannabis product registration framework planned: July 14: The Health Ministry has announced plans to release the framework for the registration of products containing Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive derivative of cannabis. In April, the ministry opened dialogue for collaboration on clinical studies on the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes. Source.
Malaysia holds consultation on Genome-Editing regulations with industry, NGOs: A four-hour session on February 16 was held to consider how Malaysia’s Biosafety Department can best amend Genome-Editing regulations, currently governed by the Biosafety Act of 2007. Presentation began with a short note on the aforesaid Act, covered definition of Living Modified Organisms (LMO), LMO applications and risks, and relevant bodies -- such as the National Biosafety Board (LBK), the Genetic Modification Advisory Committee (GMAC), and the Institutional Biosafety Committee, etc -- implementing Integrated Enforcement. Guidance was provided by the Dept of Biosafety on traditional breeding and SDNs (Site Directed Nuclease), covering SDN-1, SDN-2 and SDN-3. Stakeholders were requested to provide recommendations on how gene-editing should be regulated based on their experience. During the session, seed industry representatives presented a co-signed letter that stated: “...If two products have similar characteristics, they should not be regulated differently, simply based on the fact that they have been produced with two different processes. Predictable and harmonized regulations... must be in place.” The statement, which was signed by representatives from CropLife Malaysia, the National Seed Association of Malaysia and the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre Malaysia, urged regulators to bring policies in line with with international norms. More details to be covered in Q1 issue of Asian Seed and Planting Material.
Flooding in Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu: February 27: Thousands of families have been displaced by flooding in Besut, Dungun, Hulu Terengganu, Jeli, Kemaman, Kota Bharu, Kuala Krai, Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan, Machang, Marang, Pasir Mas, Pasir Putih, Setiu and Tanah Merah. See full report here.
‘Worst ever’ floods displace 70,000, prompting massive relief: December 28: Dozens have been killed, tens of thousands have been displaced while villages, infrastructure and vast swathes of cropland in at least eight Malaysian states were inundated earlier this month by what have been described by some reports as the “worst ever floods”, which began on December 18. Among some of the most affected areas affected by the rain-induced flooding include Jelebu, in Negeri Sembilan, as well as eleven locations in Jelebu, including the villages of Chenah, Kampung Poum and Kampung Pah. See report here. With as much as 70,000 people displaced by the floods, and no less than 48 killed, Malaysia is seeking $3 million from the U.N. Green Climate Fund (GCF) to support its national plan to adapt to climate change, which will focus on areas such as water, agricultural, and food security, public health, forestry, and infrastructure. The fund would be in addition to another 9.8 billion ringgit ($2.33 billion) that has been pledged by the Malaysian government for flood mitigation projects (report here). On December 23, Agrobank, an agriculture-focused bank owned by the Malaysian government, announced a flood relief assistance plan to aid distressed customers in Pahang, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and other affected states. In addition to extending debt moratorium by up to six months the bank will provide financial aid to micro, small and medium enterprises affected by the floods with some US$47.6mn in funds, making available financing of up to US$119,047 per SME and US$17,857 per micro-enterprise. More details here. In related post-flood news, the Forest Management Unit Center (BKPH) Maria Donggomasa has begun eradicating corn plants in state-covered forest areas, citing ecological concerns that growing crops in such areas can |trigger” floods and landslides.had given tolerance and made a statement to farmers who planted corn in restricted areas. Corn plants have been destroyed through “spraying” in the Kabanta area, Nungga Village, East Rasanae District., where farmers huts were also destroyed. See report here.
Incoming MAFI minister appeals for graduates to get into ag: Aug 29: Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh, the incoming Deputy Minister II of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAFI) has appealed to university graduates to consider careers in modern agriculture. Aside from generating income, graduates could also develop the country’s agricultural sector using their knowledge, he said. He went on to encourage young people to cultivate short-term crops on idle lands in Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang. Full story here,
Relief allocated for restoring kedah croplands destroyed by floods, mud: August 28: Following the inundation and destruction of paddy fields by Gunung Jerai (Mount Jerai) mudflows and flooding on August 18, RM1.1 million in relief funds have been allocated for the restoration of 34 hectares of paddy fields. Immediate aid of RM75 million would be provided for Kedah. Funds will be used to restore paddy fields, repair damaged farm roads, concrete drainage, irrigation supply pipes, and for cleaning and replacing pumps. Agriculture sector losses, including to paddy, livestock and fisheries, was estimated to be RM286,000. Original story here
Funding for Sarawak crops R&D: August 27: RM 87 million has been allocated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development towards existing and new agricultural development programmes in Sarawak, including for the development of fruit and vegetable cultivation through fertigation and breeding, The program is in support of a goal for the state to be a net food and food product exporter by 2030. An article detailing the plans outlines relevant breeding, crops R&D work carried out at the Debak Station of Green World Genetics in at Simpang Debak. See original story here.
Non-food agriculturalists to be certified: August 4: As part of efforts to bolster the agriculture sector, the Malaysian government has targeted a total of 200 non-food crop entrepreneurs who have been registered under the Plant Material Certification Scheme to be certified under the myGAP.TBM programme. The program will benefit farmers agriculturalists in the loriculture industry, ornamental plants and flowers, and landscape grasses, and thus facilitate access to the international market. Efforts complement news that Malaysia’s agriculture sector contributed 1.1 per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP) in the third quarter of last year. See full details here.
Melaka paddy farmers in dire need of flood barrier: May 21: Paddy farmers in Sungai Paya Luboh are calling on officials to expedite the building of retaining wall / flood barrier to protect their crops following flood damages that caused some 52 hectares of paddy fields. Original story here.
Rice planting delayed, certified paddy distribution delays: May 3: The Malaysian Paddy Farmers Association (PeSAWAH) claims that almost 10,000 farmers in the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) have not received legal paddy seeds, delaying the start of sowing for the new rice season. The chairman of PeSAWAH, Fuad Yaacob, remarked that while the distribution of seeds had improved in the last month, 30 percent of farmers had still not received seeds with the sowing deadline on April 30. "We are informed that the first phase farmers who have not received the seeds will receive along with the second phase farmers whose planting deadline is May 14". Mr Fuad went on to say the delay in sowing will cause farmers to need to re-plow the land causing increased costs, including renting of machinery and driver's wages, and remarked that he was confident of irregularities in the supply of legal paddy seeds where subsidized seeds were being sold on the commercial market. Original story in Bahasa Malaysia
Certified paddy seed distribution in Kedah: April 25: 426,118 bags of certified paddy seed were being distributed to farmer around Kedah through 27 Area Farmers Organizations (PPK) and the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) . According to the MADA chairman the seed requirement for the first rice crop this year in Kawasan Muda was 675,906 bags. This would be used for a paddy planting area of 96,558 hectares.Original story here.
Nuklear Malaysia develops high-yielding rice variety: March 14: A new “nuclear rice” seed named NMR152, developed by the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuklear Malaysia) has great potential to help Malaysia increase local rice productivity. According to the Nuklear Malaysia director-general, quoted in an article, the variety can produce 8 – 10 tonnes of rice per hectare, which is compared to only 2 – 3 tonnes from regular seeds. Moreover, the NMR152 plants are drought and flood tolerant, as well as resistant to rice blast disease and strong winds due to its stem is strong. See original story here.
National farmers organisation to distribute quality paddy seeds at reasonable prices: Mar 9: The National Farmers Organisation (Nafas) will distribute quality paddy seeds at reasonable prices, accorrdinh to Deputy Agriculture and Food Industries Minister Datuk Che Abdullah Mat Nawi, who noted that Nafas was appointed as the sole distributor for the Certified Paddy Seed under an incentive programme. Original story here.
Rice planting delayed, certified paddy distribution delays: May 3: The Malaysian Paddy Farmers Association (PeSAWAH) claims that almost 10,000 farmers in the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) have not received legal paddy seeds, delaying the start of sowing for the new rice season. The chairman of PeSAWAH, Fuad Yaacob, remarked that while the distribution of seeds had improved in the last month, 30 percent of farmers had still not received seeds with the sowing deadline on April 30. "We are informed that the first phase farmers who have not received the seeds will receive along with the second phase farmers whose planting deadline is May 14". Mr Fuad went on to say the delay in sowing will cause farmers to need to re-plow the land causing increased costs, including renting of machinery and driver's wages, and remarked that he was confident of irregularities in the supply of legal paddy seeds where subsidized seeds were being sold on the commercial market. Original story in Bahasa Malaysia
Certified paddy seed distribution in Kedah: April 25: 426,118 bags of certified paddy seed were being distributed to farmer around Kedah through 27 Area Farmers Organizations (PPK) and the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) . According to the MADA chairman the seed requirement for the first rice crop this year in Kawasan Muda was 675,906 bags. This would be used for a paddy planting area of 96,558 hectares.Original story here.
Nuklear Malaysia develops high-yielding rice variety: March 14: A new “nuclear rice” seed named NMR152, developed by the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuklear Malaysia) has great potential to help Malaysia increase local rice productivity. According to the Nuklear Malaysia director-general, quoted in an article, the variety can produce 8 – 10 tonnes of rice per hectare, which is compared to only 2 – 3 tonnes from regular seeds. Moreover, the NMR152 plants are drought and flood tolerant, as well as resistant to rice blast disease and strong winds due to its stem is strong. See original story here.
National farmers organisation to distribute quality paddy seeds at reasonable prices: Mar 9: The National Farmers Organisation (Nafas) will distribute quality paddy seeds at reasonable prices, accorrdinh to Deputy Agriculture and Food Industries Minister Datuk Che Abdullah Mat Nawi, who noted that Nafas was appointed as the sole distributor for the Certified Paddy Seed under an incentive programme. Original story here.