The Malaysian Insight

PUTRAJAYA should still consider giving “a bit” of money to Felda settlers for Hari Raya to ease their financial burden, Port Dickson MP Anwar Ibrahim said today.

He said he realised that the government had already set aside money for Felda’s rehabilitation plan and to resolve its debts, but said there was no harm if the government were to give the settlers some assistance for the festive season.

“We understand the statement made by (Economic Affairs Minister) Azmin Ali, that we we need to focus on Felda’s financial troubles and long-term solutions for its future.

“But people are also facing financial hardship this Ramadan and Raya. So, if it is possible, can the government consider giving a bit of help so that the settlers feel that their burden is a little lighter. How much is a little, is up to the people,” Anwar told the media after a meeting of the Reform and Governance Caucus in Parliament today.

Anwar is chairman of the caucus.

Azmin last week announced that there would be no Hari Raya cash handouts for Felda settlers this year.

He said Putrajaya preferred to focus on long-term solutions instead of “piecemeal measures”, and had already earmarked RM6.23 billion for the cash-stricken agency’s rehabilitation.

The Felda NGOs National Council (MPNF) has also urged the government to grant settlers financial assistance for the Hari Raya festivities given their low income in the face of falling palm oil prices. – May 28, 2019.