GEORGE TOWN – Penang must learn from the effects of the pandemic by refocusing its agenda on a greenery campaign to reduce dependence on food imports.
The communities here need to embrace this concept in their daily lives, from conserving plants to growing new produce, as well as consuming more vegetables as part of a healthier lifestyle, said Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) president Mohideen Abdul Kader.
Never has the message on the importance of greenery resonated more than during a pandemic, said Mohideen, who added that CAP as one of the oldest non-governmental organisations has been involved in Green Action Week (GAW) campaigns for the past 26 years.
“We have seen food shortages, and worse, the food essential to build the nutritional system that can lead to higher immunity is also short on supply. We have forgotten how to grow vegetables and cultivate plants to douse the heatwave,” he said at the GAW launch here.
Among those present were CAP senior educational officer N.V. Subbarow and Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) senior research officer Mageswari Sangaralingam.
In 2017, the total import for agricultural food reportedly amounted to RM51.3 billion, exceeding RM52 billion in 2018.
These are staggering numbers, as former deputy agriculture and agro-based industries minister Sim Tze Tzin espoused.
In light of the unsustainable food situation, Mohideen suggested community farming as a sure way to reduce imports, saying that every open space should be cultivated for vegetable farming.
“And the proceeds can be shared by the community that invests in the scheme,” he said.
CAP, through Subbarow, is willing to share tips on gardening and how to cultivate vegetable plants form chilis to herbal plants with strong medicinal value.
Putting their money where their mouth is, the NGO also organises a monthly course on growing vegetables.
He added that the state can help communities by encouraging such schemes no matter the form of housing, from landed properties to strata-title units.
“Anywhere there are open spaces, we should grow produce.”
Mohideen said the effects of the pandemic has instilled a sense of community among Malaysians, with many banding together to help those badly hit.
Some Malaysians have even donated to aid efforts in helping foreigners and other countries.
It shows that the spirit of community is strong in Malaysia, and has not dissipated despite what certain quarters presume, he added.
Hence, the concept of community farming in growing greens can be cultivated among neighbours here, said Mohideen. – The Vibes, October 8, 2021
