Gov't Taking Concrete Measures To Strengthen FELDA, Restore Settlers’ Confidence

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 21 (Bernama) -- The government is implementing seven concrete measures to ensure the welfare and interests of Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) settlers continue to be safeguarded, including strengthening the agency’s legal mandate.

Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang said among the key measures is reforming relevant legislation such as the Land (Group Settlement Areas) Act (GSA) 1960 to streamline Felda’s roles and functions.

“This step also aims to clarify the legal relationship between Felda and the settlers, as well as to align the existing legal framework with the needs of the new generation of settlers and the current economic landscape,” she said during a Special Chamber sitting at the Dewan Rakyat today.

She said this in response to a supplementary question from Datuk Mohd Isam Mohd Isa (BN-Tampin), who sought to know the government’s concrete steps to restore settlers’ confidence in Felda and ensure their voices continue to be heard.

Rubiah said the government is also strengthening coordination between Felda and its subsidiaries so that the entire group can move in tandem with a uniform strategic direction, a more structured organisational framework and higher operational efficiency.

“This approach aims to optimise the use of resources, avoid overlapping functions and improve the overall performance of the Felda group,” she said.

In addition, she said resolving legacy and legal issues is also a government priority, including addressing inherited burdens such as contract litigation claims and deferred obligations that have affected Felda’s financial position.

“A negotiated settlement and restructuring approach is being implemented to reduce long-term risks and restore institutional stability,” she said, adding that emphasis is also being placed on clarifying land issues and ownership structures.

Rubiah said the government is also actively holding discussions with state governments to finalise issues related to Felda land ownership and administration, as clear land status is crucial to facilitate plantation operations, expedite the implementation of development projects and attract strategic investors for the benefit of settlers.

Meanwhile, she said financial restructuring is also being carried out to create a stronger financial position through improved operational returns, optimisation of cost structures and more disciplined cash flow management.

“This includes enhancing plantation management efficiency and strengthening Felda’s core businesses,” she said.

Rubiah said all these comprehensive approaches are believed to be able to restore settlers’ confidence in the Felda institution and ensure their aspirations continue to be addressed in a consistent and structured manner.

-- BERNAMA