Farmers, paddy field eligible to receive diesel subsidy – Mohamad

NIBONG TEBAL: Farmers, especially rice farmers, will not be affected by the targeting of diesel subsidies because they are eligible to receive the subsidies, said Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.

Acknowledging the existence of confusion regarding the granting of diesel subsidies among farmers, he said his party would go to the field to provide clarification on the matter.

“Diesel subsidy is ongoing, all rice growers who use diesel are given subsidy… registration is ongoing, I am sure this confusion and misunderstanding will happen within a month or two only,” he said here today.

Mohamad said this to reporters after an engagement program with Penang farmer leaders in conjunction with the Tasek Area Farmers Association General Meeting here.

He explained that the targeting of the diesel subsidy does not mean that the subsidy will be withdrawn, rather it is given in a targeted manner to the deserving group.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today insisted that the targeting of diesel subsidies is implemented to ensure that diesel is not given to the super rich and foreigners.

Meanwhile, Mohamad said the engagement session was about the commitment of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) in strengthening the country’s food security to be more resilient and sustainable.

He said this year, KPKM has allocated RM3.2 million including five extension projects for Penang through the Board of Farmers’ Organizations (LPP).

“The development allocation under the LPP benefits the six Area Farmers’ Organizations throughout Penang and the Penang Farmers’ Organization involving 20,301 farmer members,” he said.

He hoped that the development budget would inspire farmers and ranchers in Penang to continue to play a proactive role in planning the agriculture and agro-food industry.