KUALA LUMPUR – The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry will take serious action against any party that fails to comply with the price set for padi seeds at RM45 per 20kg sack, said its minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.
In a statement, today, Mohamad said he had personally gone to monitor and inspect two factories that were given permits to produce “certified padi seeds” (BPS) in Kedah, yesterday, following complaints received from several padi farmer organisations.
“Their complaints were related to the delays in supply as well as the sale price of BPS which were being sold above the price set by the government,” he said.
Mohamad said the inspection revealed several issues that cause disruption to the BPS supply to farmers at the present time.
“Therefore I have ordered the Youth Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) together with the Padi and Rice Authority, Agriculture Department, Regional Farmers Organisation as well as BPS manufacturers to resolve this issue as soon as possible.
“BPS manufacturers also gave their commitment to supply BPS immediately to Mada,” he said.
For areas outside Mada’s supervision, Mohamad ordered increased inspection and enforcement to be conducted by his ministry’s officials.
“Firm action must be taken against any party that fails to comply with the instructions for the sale of padi seeds at the price of RM45 per 20kg sack.
“All parties are urged to cooperate so that all arising issues can be resolved immediately to ensure that the padi planting process can continue uninterrupted and be in line with the set schedule,” he added. – November 15, 2023