GEORGE TOWN: The state government has released RM107,450 in payments to six supplier companies involved in the Fishermen's Aid Redemption Programme.
State rural development, agro technology, food security and entrepreneurship committee chairman Datuk Rashidi Zinol said the payments form part of a total approved for eight suppliers, following a special approval granted by the Penang State Finance Department on April 29.
Rashidi said that while six suppliers have received their payments, the remaining claims are still undergoing final coordination with relevant agencies to ensure full settlement in accordance with financial procedures.
He also confirmed that he has personally engaged with affected suppliers to provide updates and address their concerns.
“I understand the concerns raised by the suppliers and fishermen involved. I will continue to closely monitor the process to ensure all payments are settled properly and in an orderly manner,” he said.
On Friday (May 8), several fishing-supplies retailers from Penang Island and Seberang Perai lodged police reports seeking the settlement of outstanding payments allegedly owed under the programme.
The suppliers claimed they are still awaiting payment for supplies already redeemed by fishermen under the programme.
Rashidi, however, at a press conference, dismissed any suggestion of misappropriation of the funds and stressed that it was merely a matter of procedural delay and documentation.
He also assured those affected that the state government will make the due payment.
