Projects to increase rice production are underway
KOTA KINABALU: Development projects to increase rice production under the Kota Belud Integrated Agricultural Development Area (IADA) are well underway, said Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Assistant Minister Peto Galim. He said projects include the 7,392.43 hectares land rehabilitation development and management programme for abandoned paddy fields and a programme to develop and maintain sustainable rice crop technology.
“There are also projects to upgrade the farm road in granary areas and also programmes to maintain the drainage and irrigation systems in IADA areas,” he said during question time at the State Legislative Assembly. He was responding to a question by Nominated Assemblyman Dr Aliakbar Gulasan who asked for updates on paddy cultivation in Kota Belud. Peto added that the Sabah Drainage and Irrigation Department (JPS) is also implementing Package 1C (5) of the Kota Belud irrigation plan. “This project started on Feb 17 this year and is expected to complete on April 2, 2027,” he said. He added that the project includes improving and upgrading irrigation lines spanning 8,676.18m, constructing 17 irrigation control structures, a 2,190m farm road, a bridge as well as improving existing drainage systems. “Apart from that, Kg Kota Bungan, Kg Marabau, Kg Tawadakan, Kg Tamau and Kg Pintasan also has a Water Consumer Group (KPA) comprising group of farmers who manage water use in a rice fields.“Having the KPA is part of a strategy and step to increase rice production.“IADA Kota Belud is also always active in holding meetings, courses and discussions at the officer and farmer level regarding issues, recommendations and implementation concerning the KPA,” he said.
Source Link :- https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/224609/projects-to-increase-rice-production-are-underway/
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