Takiyuddin urges cross-party action to defend farmers’ welfare and safeguard Malaysia’s food security
KUALA LUMPUR: Warning that farmers’ welfare is inseparable from national food security, Kota Bharu MP and opposition chief whip Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan yesterday joined a farmers’ gathering outside Parliament and called for cross-party action to address mounting pressures in the agricultural sector.
He said the government and the Opposition must work together to resolve issues affecting farmers as agricultural challenges cut across political lines and affect all Malaysians.
“Everyone in Malaysia eats rice. Farmers and padi growers play a vital role in ensuring our daily food supply and the country’s future.
“The welfare of farmers should be defended across party, racial and religious lines because their livelihoods are closely linked to national food security.
“Matters involving the Protection of New Plant Varieties Act 2004 have previously been raised in Parliament and the ministry has given assurances that the issue would be reviewed. We hope those assurances would be fulfilled.”
Takiyuddin highlighted concerns over high padi deduction rates reported in certain areas, which farmers said have reached 65%.
“In the past, deductions were said to be around 20%. Now, farmers are reporting deductions of up to 65%, leaving them with significantly less income.”
He also raised concerns over delayed subsidy payments, including a RM600 assistance package that farmers were told would be provided before the harvest season.
“It has been more than a year and many farmers are still waiting.”
He said opposition MPs would continue to raise farmers’ issues in Parliament, including during debates and through select committee discussions.
He added that memorandums submitted by farmer groups yesterday would be reviewed and brought to the attention of relevant authorities.
“Our commitment is to ensure the voices of farmers are heard and their concerns receive serious attention.”
