BAGAN SERAI: The government has allocated RM7mil for infrastructure upgrades to minimise the impact of drought on key rice production areas, according to Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup.

The Deputy Agriculture and Food Secu­rity Minister said the focus will be on irrigation systems, the primary water source for crops.

“It is mainly done to ensure that the water channels are functioning and can deliver water to padi plots, even if the water volume is slightly lower than usual.

“This is also one of our ways to minimise the potential negative effects on farmers’ income, especially during the drought season,” he said after launching the 2025 Perak state-level Agricultural Machinery and Equipment handover ceremony at Dewan Dato’ Zainal Abidin Zin here yes­terday, Bernama reported.

On Monday, the Meteorological Depart­ment said six areas in Peninsular Malaysia would be at Level 1 status for three days due to the ongoing hot weather.

The affected areas include Larut and Matang, Kuala Kangsar, Perak Tengah in Perak; Machang and Kuala Krai in Kelantan; and Bandar Baharu in Kedah.

In a separate matter, Arthur said that his ministry will strengthen collaboration with relevant enforcement agencies to curb cattle smuggling activities from Thailand, which are believed to threaten the country’s food security.

He said enforcement actions against individuals involved in unethical activities are under the jurisdiction of the respective state governments.

“Therefore, a comprehensive engagement session between the state and federal governments is essential to harmonise laws and prevent conflicts, which could undermine the nation’s food biosecurity,” Arthur said.

Published Date: June 4, 2025