SERDANG, Sept 14 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Saturday stressed that cartel practices in the country’s agriculture sector must and will be stopped.
He said the outdated system of importing seeds through cartels and monopolies must end without delay, and future decisions must be data-driven while prioritising the welfare of farmers, fishermen and smallholders.
“To guarantee productivity, the entire ecosystem must be streamlined, especially with the involvement of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) and other relevant ministries. Seeds and fertilisers can no longer be controlled by cartels and monopolies like before.
“That’s why it’s essential to have a minister and a secretary-general who are firm in ensuring that the old cartel practices in fertiliser importation are completely eliminated,” he said in his speech when officiating the opening of the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2024 held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park (MAEPS).
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the food sector is a crucial pillar that the country must develop and focus on.
Therefore, he stressed the importance of creating a holistic and sustainable ecosystem, rather than relying solely on the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA).
“FAMA is a cornerstone… Its performance has improved significantly. That’s why I stress that the ecosystem must be functioning effectively. The Ministry of Agriculture is a large and strategically important ministry for our country,” he said.
The prime minister also expressed hope that government subsidies for farmers, fishermen and smallholders will provide substantial benefits.
