KUALA LUMPUR: Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu says he is ready to address any criticism during the 12-day Malaysian Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Show (Maha) 2024.

Speaking at an interview at the start of the event on Wednesday, Mohamad then said that Maha 2024 will focus on the rice and livestock sectors

"We are looking to expand the development of these sectors into two additional states," he stated during an interview marking the occasion on Wednesday (September 11).

Mohamad emphasised the importance of moving past blame and focusing on food security and rice self-sufficiency.

Sabah and Sarawak are being eyed as potential 'rice bowls' for the country, with ambitions to bolster self-sufficiency in livestock, currently sitting below 20%.

Known as Mat Sabu, he mentioned that Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg is committed to achieving and exporting rice self-sufficiency within the next decade.

The goal is to fully improve these sectors and achieve 100 percent domestic supply sufficiency.

Maha 2024 is being held from September 11-22 at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) and is themed “Harvesting Tomorrow Where Dreams Blossom”.

It reflects the Ministry's dedication to innovation for addressing global challenges and securing the nation's food supply.

The show is anticipated to draw three million visitors and involve 3,500 entrepreneurs, positioning it as the largest agricultural exhibition in South-East Asia.

It will showcase interactive displays that merge technology with the latest agri-food sector advancements to strengthen food security resilience.

Business-focused gatherings are scheduled from September 11-13, while the public can visit from September 14-22.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/15/i-am-ready-to-face-criticism-from-stakeholders-says-mat-sabu