PUTRAJAYA has approved an initial allocation of close to RM1 billion per year for a period of 10 years to ensure the survival of Felda, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said. 

He said the provision was to continue the payment of Felda sukuk, which had been delayed by the government previously. 

“I, with the support of the deputy prime ministers, and the cabinet have approved funds of almost RM1 billion every year for a period of 10 years to Felda.  

“(This is to) guarantee the survival of this giant institution (Felda) of our country,” he said during Felda Settlers Day at the Malaysian Agricultural Expo Park.

Anwar said the government had signed an agreement guaranteeing a restructuring of the Felda loan through issuance of sukuk and revolving credit in an effort to recover their financial position.   

“This also enables Felda to give a cancellation of 80% of settlers’ debts amounting to RM8.3 billion.” 

He also said the government agreed to bear operating costs for 37,012 street lights in Felda estates nationwide. This would cost RM7.7 million a year. 

“The government will also build 12 haemodialysis centres with an allocation of RM21 million in all Felda regions and another at the foundation’s premises in Kelana Jaya. 

“The dialysis centres are expected to benefit and ease the burden of nearly 2,000 patients who have been forced to travel for up to two hours to get dialysis treatment. 

“For the original settlers, the government is introducing a special Rahmah Health Donation incentive of RM300 for settlers aged 65 years and above with a total allocation of RM21.21 million, which will benefit 70,715 settlers.” 

Anwar added that since July 2021, Felda Sabah had spent approximately RM128 million for energy generation as well as for the treatment and supply of clean water to the Sahabat, Umas, and Kalabakan complexes.   

“I’m announcing a diesel subsidy amounting to RM36 million per year for energy generation and water treatment operations that will benefit almost 43,000 residents in the area.” 

He added that the government will make provisions for the immediate completion of the remaining 283 abandoned housing units. – July 7, 2023.