Malaysia plans to reduce dependence on feed corn imports

Malaysia has started scaling up domestic corn production to reduce its dependence on imported feed ingredients and strengthen the country’s food security. Malaysia currently imports around 2.5 mln tons of corn annually, worth about $733 mln, while its soybean requirements are fully covered by imports.

The new program was launched on August 17 by Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu. Production will use MZ1 and MZ2 corn varieties developed by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). Around 400 ha have already been planted in the first stage, with the first harvest expected by the end of 2026.

Initially, domestic production is expected to cover only 3–4% of Malaysia’s corn demand, but the country aims to raise its self-sufficiency rate to 30% in the longer term. Achieving this target will require a significant expansion of planted area.

About 2.5 thsd ha are planned for production in Perlis and another 5.5 thsd ha in Sarawak. Corn planting has also begun in Perak, Johor and Pahang. The government expects large agribusiness companies to participate in expanding production to a commercial scale.

Expanding domestic corn production is expected to reduce Malaysia’s exposure to the global market and help stabilize feed costs. The government also expects the program to help contain poultry meat and egg prices and reduce risks to the country’s food system in the event of disruptions to international supplies.