THE Government is intensifying efforts to draw younger workers into agriculture and the agri-food sector, recasting the industry as a high-growth, high-value field anchored in technology as part of a broader push to strengthen national food security.
Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said food production has emerged as a central priority under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), reflecting its critical role in ensuring stable and reliable food supplies.
He said the sector is now being classified as a high-growth, high-value industry to expand the adoption of advanced technologies while making it more appealing to younger generations.
"Approaching the sector as a high-growth, high-value industry opens the door to wider use of technology and expertise," he said, in remarks on the challenges surrounding national food security and efforts to deepen youth participation.
The shift is intended to improve efficiency, productivity and overall output in the long term, while addressing structural weaknesses that have constrained the sector.
A key concern, he noted, is the persistently low participation of young people in agriculture, which threatens the sustainability of domestic food production.
"This situation clearly requires attention, as the continuity of the food production sector depends on the participation of a new generation.
"The use of modern technologies such as automation and digital applications in agriculture is expected to reshape perceptions of the field, which has long been regarded as a traditional occupation.
"Technological transformation can also help improve operational efficiency and reduce dependence on manual labour," he said.
The government believes repositioning agriculture as a technology-driven industry will not only attract talent but also future-proof the sector against labour shortages and rising demand for food. - March 27, 2026
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