The government proposes RM200 million in subsidised diesel fleet cards for 17,000 agricultural machinery service providers to lower paddy cultivation costs.
PUTRAJAYA: The government will table a proposal at the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) to extend the subsidised diesel fleet card system to 17,000 agricultural machinery service providers in a bid to lower paddy cultivation costs.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the proposed initiative involves an allocation of about RM200 million.
He said the proposal covers agricultural machinery operators, including those providing tractor, harvester, and fertiliser spreader services, who play an essential role in the country’s paddy cultivation chain.
“The majority of paddy farmers rely on these agricultural service providers. Therefore, this matter will be brought to MTEN,” he told reporters after launching the Kebuniti Agriculture Information Centre, known as Gardentopia, here today.
Mohamad said the move was proposed following an increase in operational costs, particularly diesel costs, which affected machinery service providers and, indirectly, burdened paddy farmers.
Malaysian Farmers’ Brotherhood Organisation (PeSAWAH) chairman Abdul Rashid Yob reportedly said that paddy farmers are currently struggling with rising operational costs, which have dampened their motivation to continue cultivation.
