Penang youth urged to take up modern agriculture

YOUTH in Penang are encouraged to venture into the modern agriculture sector towards the government’s efforts to reduce dependence on imported goods and further ensure food security, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, adding technology, innovation and modernisation in the field is not only capable of increasing production but also able to generate a good income.

“Previously many (youth) may not have seen the potential of this sector either in the field of agriculture, livestock breeding, plantation or fishing.

“But we have now entered the era of agrotechnology where we can see a difference in terms of increased yields in addition to generating better income.

“In addition, Penang is a port and a technology hub, so I hope they can make this sector a career and help ensure the food supply in the state is sufficient and assured,” he said.

He said this after officiating the celebration of Penang Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen’s Day 2023 and Eskpo Agorobuddies at UiTM Permatang Pauh in Bukit Mertajam today which was also attended by state agrotechnology, food security and cooperative development committee chairman Fahmi Zainol and rector Prof Dr Ahmad Rashidy Razali.

In the meantime Chow said that the government is aware of the importance of the youth and has prepared two programmes – the Young Farmers Programme and the Agricultural Entrepreneur Fund Programme – to empower the sector.

In addition, he said RM4.6 million was allocated to the Veterinary Services Department through the 2024 budget for activities and programmes to support livestock production for a sustainable, resilient and high-tech agro-food sector. – Bernama, December 9, 2023.