KUALA LUMPUR: The commitment and support of farmers, breeders and fishermen towards the agro-food sector and food industry has contributed to the strengthening of the country's food supply chain.

Agriculture and Food Industries Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee said that without their contribution and sacrifices, it would not be possible to stabilise the country's food supply.

"Indirectly, you all helped in the government's efforts to transform the agricultural sector and the food industry as one of the contributors to the country's gross domestic product (GDP)," he said at the Agro Awards ceremony for industry players in conjunction with the 2022 Malaysian Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro Tourism Exhibition (MAHA 2022) here yesterday.

He also hoped the recognition would inspire other farmers, breeders and fishermen.

"May your noble efforts continue so that our country's food security is guaranteed for the well-being of the Keluarga Malaysia," he said.

At the awards, Best Male Farmer was won by Muhamad Khalis Abd Karim from Perak; Waja Breeder was Kamarulzaman Ali from Kedah; Best Young Agropreneur went to Mohd Anas Mohd Asmawi from Perak; Best Fisherman to Zakaria Daud from Pahang; and Best Fishermen's Association awarded to Besut Fishermen's Association in Terengganu.

The Best Farmer Unit was won by Unit Gong 1, Area Farmers' Organisation (PPK) in Kuala Berang, Terengganu; Best Farmers' Organisation was PPK Merbok Kedah; Agrofood Innovation Leader was Hang Tuah Sdn Bhd from Penang; Best Commercial Farming Group was Koperasi Sawat Gemilang Kampung Padang Balai Berhad from Kedah; Agro e-Commerce Star was FGV Agro Fresh Technology (Gogopasar) from Selangor; and Padi Industry Leader awarded to PLS Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd from Selangor.

Six more awards will be presented at the MAHA official launching ceremony this Saturday by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Prize for the individual category is RM20,000 in cash, unit or group category (RM25,000) and the organisation or private category (RM30,000), in addition to trophies and certificates.

-- BERNAMA