Sabah receives RM17.06 million for smallholder farm road repairs, the largest allocation nationwide to improve palm oil logistics and quality.
TAWAU: Sabah has received the largest allocation for farm road repairs under this year’s Smallholder Farm Road project.
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin revealed the state obtained RM17.06 million from the total RM20 million national budget.
He said 57 farm road projects have been approved in Sabah as of October 31, including three in Tawau worth RM2 million.
“This assistance facilitates logistics and transportation of smallholders’ harvests,” Chan told reporters after officiating an oil palm smallholders programme.
He explained that timely delivery of fresh fruit bunches to mills is crucial for maintaining oil quality.
“If delivery exceeds 24 hours, Free Fatty Acid content increases, lowering oil quality and reducing smallholder income,” he said.
Chan noted the government has allocated an additional RM50 million for plantation road maintenance in Budget 2026.
He advised all parties to fully utilise government assistance to boost palm oil production income.
The minister emphasised that road conditions in Sabah were considered when channeling this assistance. – Bernama
