Malaysia seeks extra funding to help rice farmers withstand El Niño

Malaysia’s Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is seeking extra funding to prepare rice farmers for a potentially stronger El Niño next year.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said the proposed allocation would help farmers deal with prolonged drought and extreme heat. Possible support includes fertilizers, equipment and other measures to strengthen crops.

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This time, particularly in facing El Niño, we have asked the government to be ready to provide additional funding to deal with drought and unpredictable hot weather.

The ministry has discussed the request with the Finance Ministry after its secretary-general prepared a list of proposals. Mohamad said there was agreement in principle to increase the ministry’s allocation, particularly to strengthen preparations for global uncertainty and the expected effects of El Niño.

The request remains under consideration. Mohamad said budgets are usually largely finalized by August, although some last-minute adjustments are typically made before printing. Budget 2027 is scheduled to be presented on Oct. 9.

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We may need to provide fertilizers or equipment to increase crop resilience and so on. Therefore, additional funding is needed.