KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 ― The Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Felcra) will become the agency driving Putrajaya's effort to reduce food import and provide food security, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today.

He said the government has endorsed Felcra's request to spearhead its food import reduction drive, with the agency expected to begin work next year.

"Felcra is serious in becoming the agency leading the food security industry because no party has stepped up to deal with the scenario seriously and professionally,” Najib said in his opening speech of the agency's 50th anniversary celebration here.

Malaysia relies heavily on import to fulfill its food demand, with imports totalling RM45.4 billion last year alone, Najib said.

From the total imports edible foods costed RM5.2 billion, dairy products RM3.4 billion, vegetables and fruits RM1.8 billion and cocoa products RM1.5 billion.

Najib said the staggering amount spent on food imports prompted the government to direct its resources for food products cultivation domestically.

"This is why the government has endorsed Felcra as the leading agency in the food security industry,” the prime minister said.

For such purpose Felcra will initiate steps to become a major producer in the halal poultry and beef industry, he added.