A study for suitable rice varieties for non-irrigated farm areas was launched by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood yesterday.
Previous research had focused on areas with irrigation systems. The department is now putting in effort to increase yields of farm areas without irrigation in Tutong, Belait and Temburong districts.
The research project is a cooperation between the department and China’s Hunan Hybrid Rice Research Centre (HHRRC), which also includes strengthening the country’s paddy breeding and seedling industry.
A launch ceremony was held at the Lekiun Agricultural Development Area in Temburong District yesterday.
Chinese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Xiao Jianguo, the guest of honour, handed over paddy seeds to Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab.
The permanent secretary then presented the seedlings to farmer of the Lekiun Agricultural Development Area Pilpus bin Riyong. – James Kon
