Felda Communities Unveil Development Plans With RM100,000 Allocation

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 (Bernama) -- The government’s RM100,000 allocation for each village under the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) is poised to significantly boost the socio-economic development of settler communities nationwide.

Felda has outlined several initiatives, including tourism, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and essential infrastructure improvements tailored to local needs, all aimed at enhancing community welfare.

In SELANGOR, Hassan Mukmin Amat, 63, a second-generation Felda Soeharto settler in Hulu Selangor, suggested that the allocation be used to develop the tourism sector, thereby boosting the local economy.

“Besides homestays, we could create recreational attractions like an ATV park or motocross track, which would set us apart from other areas,” he said, noting the area's potential for tourism.

Hassan also suggested capitalising on the natural attractions nearby, like Sungai Bernam, which is popular among anglers.

In TERENGGANU, Mat Zain Mat Uyob, 67,  JPKKP chairman at Felda Jerangau Barat in Ajil, plans to purchase a tractor with the allocation to lower transportation costs for palm oil delivery, saving the RM60 per ton spent on tractor rental.

“By owning a tractor, we can reduce costs and improve the settlers’ income,” he said.

In KEDAH, deputy head of Felda Laka Selatan, Changlun, Rodhi Md Rejab plans to use the funds to expand the community's cabin accommodation, as demand for homestays has been high.

“Our cabins have been fully booked each week for months, providing additional income to the community,” he said, highlighting the strategic location near educational institutions and the Thai border.

In MELAKA, Nizam Baharom, JPKKP chairman of Felda Hutan Percha in Alor Gajah, envisions using the funds to support SMEs in the area, where small-scale businesses produce snacks such as chips and pastries.

“This allocation will help us set up a sales hub, allowing SME owners to market their products more effectively,” he said.

In PERLIS, Abdul Khair Hashim, JPKKP chairman of Felda Chuping Selatan near Padang Besar, sees the allocation as an opportunity for the community to plan development projects, such as upgrading facilities, organising social programmes, and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

“We will work closely with the residents and relevant parties to ensure that the funds are used wisely and have a lasting positive impact,” he said.

In PAHANG, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail expressed that the allocation is especially beneficial for the state, which has the highest number of Felda schemes in the country.

“We are grateful for the allocation, and we hope similar initiatives will continue in the future to support Felda residents,” he said, urging the community to make the most of the funds to improve their lives.

In NEGERI SEMBILAN, Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad, 65, Head of Felda Wilayah Raja Alias in Jempol, said the RM100,000 allocation allows villagers to choose projects based on their specific needs.

“The residents know best what their community needs, and this approach empowers them to determine the most appropriate projects,” he said.

In JOHOR, Felda Wilayah Johor Bahru deputy head, Muhammad Fadzli Hasan called on the  Development and Security Committees (JKKR) in the state to plan income-generating projects for the community.

“We hope to expand local economic initiatives, which will not only enhance residents' well-being but also foster a sense of self-reliance,” he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the RM100,000 allocation for each Felda village yesterday, empowering local communities to decide on development projects. This initiative aligns with the MADANI government’s principles of consultation and citizen empowerment.

-- BERNAMA