KUALA LUMPUR, The newly launched Food Security Blueprint by Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) outlines three main goals, including developing future talents and agro-entrepreneurs, as well as enhancing agricultural technology.

UPM vice-chancellor Datuk Prof Dr Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah said it also aims to ensure community and industry involvement in bridging the gap between policy and implementation to fortify the nation’s food security.

‘Alhamdulillah, we have started the initiative and we welcome other higher education institutions, including polytechnics and community colleges, to connect this major agenda to research, teaching and reaching out to the grassroots community,’ he said when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s ‘Apa Khabar Malaysia’ talk show today.

The Food Security Blueprint was launched last Friday by Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.

According to Ahmad Farhan, food security issues encompass food
availability, accessibility, utility and stability.

‘These four aspects require extensive knowledge and understanding as they involve various factors such as export, import, climate, weather and so on.

‘Therefore, we hope that under this blueprint, we will be able to mobilise everyone, including students, staff and researchers, to identify the most critical efforts needed to fill the gaps in the national food security ecosystem,’ he said.

He also expressed hope that the blueprint plan would serve a dual purpose.

‘We have networks with partners worldwide, whether we learn from them, such as Japan or countries with excellent food security systems. At the same time, we also have networks through which we can teach others.

‘I’m confident that UPM will establish an excellent platform to elevate its reputation as an agriculture and food security-focused university, thereby making a significant impact on the nation and the world,’ he said.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency