Felda semenchu: The RM15.5 billion in national revenue leakage that was recovered earlier has helped the government to some extent sustain subsidies for the people as the whole world faces a global energy crisis. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said strict enforcement by the Inland Revenue Board (IRB) and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has enabled the government to recover the money to be channeled back to the people in need.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized the importance of informing the public, including those in villages and Felda, about the recovery of funds that were previously lost in the hands of certain individuals. Speaking at the Felda Semenchu Settlers' Joint Programme, he highlighted the need for continuous political and social efforts to defend the people's welfare.

Also present at the event were Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, who is also the Pengerang MP, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, and the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Anwar stated that the government is currently bearing a significant subsidy burden, amounting to RM6 billion a month, to ensure the success of the RON95 petrol subsidy programme (BUDI95) and to provide diesel subsidies to farmers, fishermen, and public transport. He warned that the subsidy costs might escalate if the global energy crisis persists.

Moreover, Anwar urged for continuous improvement in Felda management to restore its prestige, which has been affected by previous debt issues. He reassured that Felda's development agenda would be strengthened, focusing on education, basic facilities, and the well-being of the settler community.

At the event, the Prime Minister announced an allocation of RM500,000 to upgrade basic facilities in Felda Semenchu. This allocation aims to improve public amenities such as schools, mosques, and infrastructure, directly benefiting local residents.