Food Security: A Closer Look Using Brunei Darussalam as Case Study
摘要
The food crisis of 2007 focussed attention on food security. In the region, ASEAN took a number of initiatives to improve the food security of its members and secured co-operation under the ASEAN Plus Three for the Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR). Brunei is not an agricultural country. The discovery of oil and gas deposits has enabled the country to flourish as a rentier state, although it introduced economic diversification early on in its national development programme. The small population of less than half a million people combined with the oil wealth suggests that food security should not be a problem. However, dependence on imports, particular of rice, exposes the country to supply chain disruptions. This chapter examines food security in the region using Brunei as a case study, with a focus on rice production. It draws on in-depth knowledge acquired through a 2010–2011 graduate study and subsequent follow-up research. Secondary data was sourced from the ASEAN Food Security Information System. The study has shown that despite its importance, the issue of food security is not given due attention by the relevant agencies at the operational level and society in general because it is inconspicuous. So, life goes on without giving it a second thought. As a result, rice production in Brunei continues to be plagued by poor agricultural management primarily due to inadequate technical and technological support and environmental problems. The chapter discussed the concept of food security and its application in relation to sustainable development.