Supporting Mat Sabu's push for food self-sufficiency as a security imperative

Mat Sabu's warning that geopolitical tensions demand stronger food security measures resonates with a growing consensus among policy experts. They argue that relying on imports for essential goods like rice and wheat exposes the nation to supply shocks from conflicts, trade disputes, or natural disasters abroad. By investing in domestic agriculture, Malaysia can reduce that vulnerability and protect consumers from price volatility. The defence minister's emphasis on inter-agency coordination is practical: food security involves not just farming but logistics, stockpiling, and emergency planning. Countries like Singapore and South Korea have adopted similar approaches, building strategic reserves and supporting local farming despite high costs. For Malaysia, boosting rice self-sufficiency also supports rural livelihoods and reduces the trade deficit. While the path is costly and slow, proponents say the long-term benefits of resilience far outweigh the short-term expenses. The upcoming national budget is a chance to put money behind the rhetoric, with funding for irrigation, research, and farmer subsidies. For a nation that experienced panic buying during early COVID lockdowns, the lesson is clear: food security is too important to leave to global markets alone.