University of Arkansas doctoral candidate studying Malaysian rice production

University of Arkansas doctoral candidate Roslina Ali is researching the policies surrounding rice production in her native country, Malaysia, which has set a goal of becoming entirely self-sufficient in rice production by 2030.
 
"Rice farmers in Malaysia have received substantial government subsidies," Ali said. "An increased demanded for rice production has augmented government costs and expenditures, making it more economical to import rice than to grow it locally … I am trying to determine if it would be more beneficial, both economically and socially, for the government to reallocate resources, including rice subsidies, to other crops or commodities with a more competitive, comparative and sustainable advantage."
 
Following the world food crisis of 2008, which saw rice shortages in Malaysia due to export restrictions in other countries, the government decided in 2010 to set the self-sufficiency goal.

The country currently produces approximately 60 percent of its rice. Ali believes the country is unlikely to meet its target, but she plans to help however she can.
 
"This research is a crucial contribution to the Malaysian government, driving a way forward through policy sequencing strategies for the Malaysian rice sector and agricultural economics," Ali said. "It is such a pleasure to be involved in it, and I really hope to contribute more to my government -- especially in research and policy areas."