Move to make Langkawi main producer of glutinous rice: Dr M

LANGKAWI: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the padi pulut (glutinous rice) cultivation project will be implemented in Langkawi which will make the island a major producer of glutinous rice.

He said for that purpose, the Department of Agriculture will identify areas and locations that are suitable for cultivating glutinous rice separate from traditional padi-growing fields.

“The decision has already been made and they (Agriculture Department) will select the right area. If successful, it (the project) would be able to generate a good income for Langkawi residents and make the island a producer of glutinous rice.

“This is our hope because I believe the price of glutinous rice is higher than the price of ordinary rice, so farmers can increase their income if they plant glutinous rice,” he told a media conference after handing out Kasih Ibu Darul Aman (Kida) Peringkat Langkawi cards to 48 recipients at the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), here, Saturday.

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Also present were his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, Juhari Bulat and Mohd Firdaus Ahmad, the state assemblymen for Ayer Hangat and Kuah, respectively.

Commenting further, Dr Mahathir, who is also the Langkawi Member of Parliament, suggested that the island’s residents grow vegetables because of the high demand.

“There are many hotels in Langkawi but they cannot supply vegetables and are forced to import from the mainland or other countries.

“This is detrimental to us, if Langkawi residents are diligent in cultivating vegetables, it will generate a much higher income.

“We will introduce vegetable cultivation in stages which will bring a good income to those who are willing to work,” he said.

Meanwhile, commenting on the Kida card, Dr Mahathir said the card holders could seek treatment at four clinics and obtain essential items at five stores registered under the programme.

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“We care about the problems of the people, especially those who are weak (ill) and with low incomes.

“We are ready to give help but hope this assistance is temporary because in Malaysia, we like to see independent people who are not dependent on the Government.”

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