Tackling the food crisis

Countries like Malaysia which complacently rely on cheap imports have found their import bill surging. It is time for them to grow more food on their own.

THIS week, world leaders are gathering in Rome in an “emergency meeting” to discuss what is now dubbed the world food crisis. Some 40 presidents and prime ministers will assemble to show concern, and perhaps come up with some concrete plans to address the high prices and shortages of many food products.