BANGI: The government is committed to prioritising the housing issues of Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) managers, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that although the full budget would only be announced during the next annual budget proposal in October, preparations to fix the houses of Felda managers would begin now.
Anwar said this during a meet-and-greet session with Felda managers from across the country, accompanied by top management on Friday (Aug 21).
Also in attendance were Felda director-general Datuk Dr Suzana Idayu Wati Osman and Felda chairman Tan Sri Ahmad Badri Mohd Zahir.
He referred to some of the half-century old residential quarters for Felda staff and managers which include aging infrastructure, safety risks, and funding delays.
Anwar said the housing problems faced by the Felda managers must be addressed immediately as roofs were leaking and some of the houses were crumbling.
"We will approve the allocation this year as well. I want the implementation to be carried out as quickly as possible. That is the real guarantee. So, I ask you to work harder, be more determined, and be more attentive and concerned.
“Therefore, I will take responsibility within my capacity, at least for the basic necessities. I am not asking for five-star hotels. I am asking that the houses do not have leaking roofs or broken toilets. For the existing houses - the houses where you are currently living - I think that is reasonable.
"Although the initial allocation was announced as a total of RM10mil to be implemented in phases, that was the initial announcement. I did not announce it according to phases because I have already told the Treasury that when it comes to house roofs, toilets, walls, and drains around the houses, there is no need to wait for the phases. Implement them immediately for their convenience.
“So, the funds will be released by the Finance Ministry as the current situation is similar to when I was the finance minister back in the 1990s. This is not about being excessive.
"Whatever needs to be resolved, we will resolve it properly. Therefore, I want to inform you that I seek your cooperation and support so that we can implement these seven strategic initiatives," said Anwar.
On July 7, the Prime Minister announced seven initiatives in conjunction with Felda Settlers' Day and the 70th Anniversary celebration, including strengthening digital literacy for settlers and renovating 370 primary and secondary schools in Felda areas.
“And, in fulfilling my responsibility, I will ensure, God willing, that the implementation of the basic programme for the managers’ housing is expedited, starting this year as well. On Monday (Aug 24), I will call the Treasury officials so that this Felda managers’ housing programme can start immediately. To the team, prepare the budget - start working on it now, not next month," said Anwar.
He also stated that he fears committing to too many financial promises to Felda as this may lead to further borrowings.
In his speech, he urged Felda managers to acknowledge problems in the organisation’s management and find solutions.
"The problem with Felda is not the settlers, but it has to do with the management. You as managers should communicate between Felda and the settlers. A glorious past can be destroyed by greed alone. We should admit there are problems and find solutions to them," said Anwar.
In a later Q&A session, Felda managers asked Anwar to assist with replanting crops and repairing Felda offices.
Anwar stated that the Felda director-general will study assistance for replanting crops, while repairing offices will be the second priority after addressing Felda managers' housing.
Regarding a request for the Prime Minister to intervene on housing issues faced by the second generation of Felda settlers in Sabah, Anwar stated that he will contact the Sabah state government.
A Felda manager also requested that Felda be allowed value creation similar to FGV Holdings Berhad.
About 300 Felda managers attended the session with the Prime Minister.
