Explore Country's Rice Industry At Bernas Booth During HPPNK 2025 In Kota Kinabalu

KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 (Bernama) -- A variety of engaging and interactive activities await visitors at the Padiberas Nasional Berhad (Bernas) booth, during the National Farmers, breeders and Fishermen's Day (HPPNK) 2025, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Kota Kinabalu, from tomorrow through Sunday.

Highlights include a rice sensory experience, offering visitors the chance to explore the unique qualities and diversity of Malaysian rice varieties. Visitors can also participate in a rice weight guessing contest, where two lucky winners will take home a year's supply of free rice.

In a statement today, Bernas said that visitors at its interactive stall on Level 4 of the Sipadan Convention Hall will have the opportunity to learn about rice cultivation methods, the support provided to local rice farmers, and the vital role every Malaysian plays in safeguarding the nation’s food supply.

“Food security begins with awareness. When people understand the effort behind every plate of rice, they will value it more, and that appreciation is the true strength of the nation,” it said.

As the government’s strategic partner in the food security agenda, Bernas’s role goes beyond managing rice imports. The company is also actively involved in transforming the local rice industry through innovation, investment, and close collaboration with the farming community.

Meanwhile, in another development, Bernas said that its key focus this year is the Ala Sekinchan Large-Scale Smart Paddy Field (SMART SBB) in Kota Belud, introduced in 2022 through close collaboration between state and federal government agencies.

The pilot project in Kampung Jawi-Jawi recorded a 21 per cent increase in yield during the first planting season of the year - rising from 3.79 to 4.59 metric tonnes per hectare. This increase not only boosted farmers' income but also contributed to strengthening Sabah’s domestic rice production.

“The programme has now expanded to 10 locations across Kota Belud, involving more than 80 active paddy farmers. It integrates modern agricultural practices, training, financial support, and mechanisation to modernise rice farming and enhance the livelihoods of rural communities,” it added.

-- BERNAMA