InfoSAWIT, PUTRAJAYA – A warm and enthusiastic atmosphere filled the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK) as Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini Ahmad made her first official appearance as Malaysia’s Minister of Plantation and Commodities.
Accompanied by Deputy Minister Dato’ Sri Huang Tiong Sii, Dr. Noraini formally assumed office on Thursday, marking the start of a new chapter in leadership for one of Malaysia’s most strategic economic sectors.
Her arrival was welcomed by the ministry’s top management, directors-general of agencies under KPK, and ministry staff. The reception symbolized collective commitment to strengthening the plantation and commodities sector, a long-standing pillar of Malaysia’s economy.
On her first working day, Dr. Noraini immediately convened a series of meetings and briefings with senior management and affiliated agencies. The discussions focused on policy direction, institutional roles, strategic priorities, and the importance of inter-agency coordination in ensuring sustainable national development through agribusiness commodities.
Agency heads delivered concise briefings outlining their mandates, ongoing programs, and key challenges. Dr. Noraini emphasized sustainability pressures, global market dynamics, and the welfare of smallholders, while also highlighting the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in preparing skilled young professionals for the plantation sector.
The session laid the groundwork for stronger institutional synergy and a shared understanding of KPK’s strategic direction, ensuring policies are implemented in an integrated and impactful manner.
Dr. Noraini brings extensive political experience to the role. A senior figure in United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) under the Barisan Nasional coalition, she has served three terms as Member of Parliament for Parit Sulong, Johor, and currently chairs the National Finance Committee. She previously served as Malaysia’s Higher Education Minister from 2020 to 2021.
With her leadership background, Dr. Noraini is expected to guide Malaysia’s plantation and commodities sector toward greater resilience, global competitiveness, and sustainability. (T2)
