Passing of Budget 2021 gives hope to farmers, fishermen  

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 26  -- The passing of the 2021 Supply Bill (Budget 2021) at policy level has brought relief and hopes to fishermen and farmers to continue holding out during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Sarawak Fishermen Association (Penesa) chairman Jam Hajimi told Bernama that the increase in the fishermen cost of living allowance from RM250 to RM300 in the budget starting next year showed the concern of the government towards fishermen.

Meanwhile, a fishermen from Kampung Pasir Pandak in Santubong, Sarawak, Rosly Ibrahim welcomed the higher allowance and believed it could stimulate the socio-economy of the people.

For Kedah State Fisheries director,  Abdul Halim Marzuki the passing of the budget was important for the survival of the fisheries sector and assist fishermen to pull through the COVID-19 pandemic.  

“Apart from fisheries, we hope the government would also focus on certain infrastructure to help raise the productivity of the sector,” he said.

Meanwhile a padi farmer in Alor Setar, Kedah, Aswadil Khairi Che Omar, 36, was grateful that Budget 2021 has been passed.

“We are looking forward to seeing more improvements in our farming facilities such as canals and farm roads,” he said.

Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) chairman Datuk Kamarudin Md Nor said the support of MPs for Budget 2021 has brought much cheers to 7,000 farmers in Kelantan. 

“It is hoped more would be allocated for various development projects to ensure food sufficiency in the country next year,” he added.

Meanwhile, Tumpat Area Fishermen Association chairman, Mohamed Shaam Abd Kadir was happy the budget had been passed as it meant a lot for the 400 fishermen registered in Tumpat district especially in the uncertain weather now and the challenges posed by the COVID-19  pandemic.

-- BERNAMA