Felda Must Be Included In National Development Projects And Initiatives - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, March 5 (Bernama) -- Felda must no longer be treated as a separate or isolated entity, but instead be fully integrated into the nation’s development agenda, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed today.

Addressing Felda staff and community at Menara Felda today, he said all ministries and government departments have been instructed not to exclude Felda areas when implementing new projects or initiatives.

“I have instructed at the Cabinet meeting that all departments and ministries must not leave FELDA as an isolated area when introducing any new project or initiative.

“Government facilities, whether in education or social services, must also reach Felda communities,” he said.

Also present were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Felda chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Anwar said the old approach, which treated Felda as if it could operate independently without full integration into national policies, must come to an end.

The Prime Minister said he attended today’s event with optimism, citing recent performance indicators showing improvements in production output, governance and programmes focused on the wellbeing of settler families.

He acknowledged that Felda had endured a difficult period in the past but said those challenges should serve as lessons for future recovery.

“We previously had to delist FGV Holdings Berhad from Bursa Malaysia due to legacy issues. It was a tough decision arising from serious problems, but the move has now become a key driver in restoring Felda’s position,” he said.

He also commended Felda’s management for incorporating digital transformation into its operations while emphasising innovation, value-chain development and sustainability.

Anwar said these efforts align with broader national priorities such as energy transition and economic modernisation, while stressing that integrity, values and ethical conduct must remain the foundation.

The prime minister also proposed that Felda’s 70th anniversary celebration be held on a large scale in Felda areas rather than in cities or enclosed halls, to strengthen the spirit of the settler community.

He said entities within the Felda ecosystem, including Koperasi Permodalan Felda Berhad, should be directly involved in organising the event.

With determination, teamwork and continued government support, Anwar said Felda can remain a successful land development model and an enduring national legacy.

-- BERNAMA