Seed strategy bolsters supply

Planting season: The activity of sowing rice seeds is vigorous as it is when the rice planting season begins in Kedah and Perlis, and with the price of rice seeds surging, the burden on farmers is intensified. — Bernama

PETALING JAYA: The surge in padi seed prices is not only a huge burden on farmers, but may potentially affect supply in the near future. A move to have seeds reach farmers directly is the solution.

Legal padi seeds are to be sold directly to the Regional Farmers’ Organisation (Pertubuhan Peladang Kawasan or PPK) and rice farmers from Oct 11, based on a directive by the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.