KUALA LUMPUR: It is unusual for Malaysia – a nation that produces food – to experience food shortages, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

The Sarawak Premier said that Malaysia is rich with land which should be developed and equipped with the latest technology to produce enough food.

"Malaysia is currently experiencing spillover effects of current geopolitical tensions, which have resulted in inflation and food shortages.

"In Sarawak, we have brainstormed to model some developed countries such as China or even Thailand to modernise agriculture," he said at the launch of Kenyalang Biris Rice and Carus Creamy White Pepper along with the soft-launching of Sarawak Agrofest 2022 and Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival 2022.

He added that using technology would enable Sarawak to be a main food producer and subsequently reduce food imports and curb rising foodstuff prices.

"Once we are the main producer, we will be capable of exporting food which in turn will strengthen our currency," he said.

Abang Johari previously announced that Sarawak aimed to be a net food exporter by 2030.

He said Sarawak would open up 1,000 acres of land for agriculture purposes and equip them with the latest 5G technology.

He said that currently, Sarawak is exporting tilapia fish to Singapore and that the state government was also interested in improving horticulture as the Borneo forest is rich with flora.