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).
Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – Despite the prevailing hotand dry conditions, particularly in Kedah – a rice bowl of Malaysia, riceplanting activities in Kawasan Muda have remained largely unaffected, according to theMuda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada).
In its statement released on February 18, Mada indicated thatrice 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 beenharvested, it said.
Despite the dry weather conditions, the water levels at keyreservoirs including the Pedu dam, Muda dam, and Ahning dam remain adequate tomeet irrigation demands for the ongoing season with comfortable levels at71.71%, 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 willnot impede the ongoing cropping activities which are projected for completionby the end of next month.
To mitigate the effects of the dry season, Mada hasintensified proactive measures, leveraging reusable pump stations to optimisewater conservation from the dams.
It has also initiated rotational irrigation tailored tospecific needs of rice cultivation in each region. Mada advised farmers to usewater prudently to ensure efficient water distribution and minimise wastage topromote sustainable agricultural practices./.
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Illustrative photo (Photo: malaysiamail.com) 
