Quality
Rice Seeds for Higher Productivity
Value Proposition
Yield levels amongst paddyfarmers range widely
between 3.5 mton per ha to 9 mton . This stark
difference illustrate variability in cultural
practices amongst farmers i.e seed selection,
husbandry, and farming methods etc. While location
and agro-climate are significant factors, beginning
with the right seeds is a mandatory step.
The
technology commercialised are the :-
·
MARDI developed varieties such as MR185, MR211,
MR 84, etc
·
Quality rice seed production processes.
Commercialisation Status
Commercialisation was done through a joint venture
with Padi Beras Nasional Bhd (Bernas). The project
demonstrates Bernas' intention to go beyond its
current forte of rice trading to upstream activities.
In this regards, Bernas sees commercial potential
in the production and marketing of quality seeds.
The company has been operating since 1997 over
more than 8 planting seasons. It produces over
8000 metric ton or 20% of the national demand
representing a turnover of more than RM 12 million
a year. With the nation's desire to increase agricultural
productivity, increasing rice yield is a major
agenda. The need for quality rice seeds is therefore
expected to increase. The company have been granted
ISO Certification for processing, illustrating
progress in the production/ business system. It
has provided employment for 60 full time workers
and contract farming over 3000 ha.
The
significance of this project is that it illustrates
that rice seed production is commercially viable.
Currently 50% of the demand is met by government
facilities.
Patent/ IPR Status
Not Applicable for Variety as Plant Breeders Right
or similar protection is yet not in place in the
country.
Proprietary
production process kept by Bernas Marditech Seed
Sdn Bhd.
