Malaysia Agribusiness

The Malaysian government’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) has identified food security as a national concern.  To address that issue, the government of Malaysia seeks to minimize reliance on imports for essential food items like onions, dairy products, coffee, wheat flour, tea, potatoes, cooking oil, mango, coconut, and beef. Steps in this direction include initiatives to modernize agricultural technology, strengthen research and development, and reduce import dependency. 

MAFS is focusing on several key programs to enhance food security. Firstly, it aims to empower the aquaculture industry to reduce dependence on fish resources obtained through captured fish. Secondly, the ministry plans to expand cattle breeding in feedlots to increase meat and dairy self-sufficiency. Thirdly, the cultivation of grain corn is targeted to reduce import dependence for livestock feed. Experts suggest that agriculture land and space masterplans, as well as industry transformation roadmaps, could support the implementation of government initiatives.

One national project under development is a 3,250-hectare integrated dairy farm in northern Malaysia. Developed in partnership with Qatar’s Baladna, the project aims to create a climate-independent facility using advanced technology and quality management systems. The facility is set to be commercially operational in 2025, with the ability to produce up to 300 million liters of fresh milk annually.  Developing that integrated dairy farm will require automated technologies for cattle milking, herd management, climate regulation, biosecurity, bottling and packaging, and waste management. 

If you represent a U.S. company with relevant technology or expertise keen to explore agribusiness opportunities in Malaysia, please get in touch with Commercial Specialist Mohan Gurusamy at office.kualalumpur@trade.gov