THE Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is intensifying efforts to maintain and repair agricultural roads and irrigation systems nationwide.
Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the ministry is aware of complaints from padi farmers and taking steps to address them, including introducing modern methods for cleaning canals and drains.
“In the padi sector, we acknowledge the concerns raised.
“These issues need improvement, and the ministry, together with the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada), is working on adopting modern techniques, particularly for clearing canals and drains.
“Additional allocations are indeed necessary, and we will make full use of the funds available,” he told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
The ministry has been allocated RM162.1mil for 2025 to carry out maintenance and rehabilitation of agricultural roads, as well as to maintain irrigation and drainage systems in both main and outside padi areas nationwide.
Of this, RM104.7mil has been channelled to agencies under the ministry, including the Integrated Agricultural Development Areas, Mada and the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority to manage main padi areas.
Meanwhile, RM57.4mil has been allocated to the Irrigation and Drainage Department, the Farmers’ Organisation Authority and the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board for areas outside main padi zones.
The allocations are based on the maintenance responsibilities of each agency, with works such as cleaning canals and water channels carried out by the agency responsible for that area.
The ministry stressed that regular upkeep of agricultural roads and irrigation infrastructure is crucial to ensure all areas are properly maintained, enhancing facilities and improving welfare for farmers.
