Complementing Malaysia's Food Security: The Role of Muda Areas as the Nation's Main Paddy Field

Author : Rumzi Ahmad, Siti Mariam Md Rejab

Abstract :Rice cultivation in Malaysia faces ongoing challenges in meeting self-sufficiency levels critical to national food security, with Muda as a major rice-producing area playing a pivotal role. This paper explores the implications of optimizing rice productivity within the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) region by addressing operational, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. Key strategies include enhancing water and soil management, adopting high-yield rice varieties, integrating mechanization, and implementing data-driven decision-making tools. Through coordinated efforts to improve farmer training, encourage youth participation, and promote sustainable practices, MADA aims to balance productivity with environmental stewardship. The findings suggest that targeted policy interventions, financial support, and infrastructural upgrades are necessary to address Muda’s unique challenges, enabling it to contribute effectively to Malaysia’s food security and rural economic development.

Keywords :agricultural productivity, food security, Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA), Rice production.

Conference Name :International Conference on Sustainable Agricultural and Environmental Development (ICSAED-25)

Conference Place Hiroshima, Japan

Conference Date 19th Feb 2025