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BUSINESS SECTORS
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT)
strives to offer higher-yield paddy varieties to farmers,
particularly through the Titih variety that is still in its trial
phase. The Titih variety is expected to produce up to eight
tonnes per hectare.
MPRT also continues to seek higher-yield paddy varieties
by collaborating with higher education institutions locally
and abroad, as well as through strategic partnerships
with research institutions such as the International
Rice Research Institute and Yuan Longping High Tech
Agriculture Co Ltd from the People’s Republic of China.
The launch of Brunei’s biggest commercial paddy field,
combined with higher yielding varieties of paddy,
are geared towards helping the country meet its rice
self-sufficiency. The target under the Department of
Agriculture and Agrifood strategic plan has been revised
and extended until 2022.
Programmes
Brunei offers many opportunities for the youth to explore
the agriculture industry. There are five pathways to apply
for Agricultural Development Area: pilot project; through
advertisement; expansion programme; request for
proposal; and foreign direct investment (FDI). Farm sites
and advisory services are provided by the government.
Seeds, fertiliser and pesticides are also provided.
The pilot project programme is based on trial practice on a
small plot of land. To be eligible, participants must come
up with a feasible proposal.
If successful, participants will be given a farm to be
developed over two years. Participants who meet the
criteria may extend their contract and apply for site
expansion.