Output at Malaysia’s rice bowl ensured despite hot, dry conditions
Despite the prevailing hot and dry conditions, particularly in Kedah – a rice bowl of Malaysia, rice planting activities in Kawasan Muda have remained largely unaffected, according to the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada).
Illustrative photo (Photo: malaysiamail.com)
Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – Despite the prevailing hot
and dry conditions, particularly in Kedah – a rice bowl of Malaysia, rice
planting activities in Kawasan Muda have remained largely unaffected, according to the
Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada).In its statement released on February 18, Mada indicated that
rice planting for the second season in 2023 has reached 99.3% completion,
spanning an area of 100,011ha.
Up to 12.1% of the rice fields have already been
harvested, it said.
Despite the dry weather conditions, the water levels at key
reservoirs including the Pedu dam, Muda dam, and Ahning dam remain adequate to
meet irrigation demands for the ongoing season with comfortable levels at
71.71%, 72.80%, and 93.96%, respectively.
Although the rainfall in Kawasan Muda is 12mm lower than the 20-year average of 47mm, Mada remains optimistic that this will
not impede the ongoing cropping activities which are projected for completion
by the end of next month.
To mitigate the effects of the dry season, Mada has
intensified proactive measures, leveraging reusable pump stations to optimise
water conservation from the dams.
It has also initiated rotational irrigation tailored to
specific needs of rice cultivation in each region. Mada advised farmers to use
water prudently to ensure efficient water distribution and minimise wastage to
promote sustainable agricultural practices./.