No extra funds for agricultural sector in Budget 2017

The Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry will not apply for additional funds under Budget 2017 for the agricutural sector.

The Minister, Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said, the focus is on distributing available funds to selected sectors such as dairy, which can help improve the country's economy.

"This is not the best time to ask for more funds because we know that the country's revenue from oil and gas is somewhat reduced," he told reporters after presenting the Agropreneur Agrobank 2016 Awards to winners here today.

He said Malaysia still relied on imports in respect of dairy products, although though the country had entrepreneurs in the industry.

"This needs to be given attention as the value of our imports exceeds that of exports.

"To date, the country has a deficit of RM18 billion for the import of livestock feed," he added.

Ahmad Shabery said the ministry would also discuss with the Education and Health Ministries and state governments on establishing a Dairy Council to further expand the sector.

"Having local dairy products will contribute to the country's economy as the demand is already present and also enhance the use of local content," he added.