Kelantan Sees Rise in Progressive Neighbourhood Watch Units

Kelantan: A total of 23 Progressive Rukun Tetangga (RT) or neighbourhood watch units have been established in Kelantan this year, involving an allocation of RM1.29 million. Kelantan National Unity and Integration Department (JPNIN) director Zarina Zakaria noted that this number marked an increase from last year, when only 14 Progressive RTs were approved, as part of efforts to boost the economic income of local communities. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zarina Zakaria stated, "The implementation of these Progressive RTs not only provides opportunities for communities to increase their income, but also helps revive the spirit of cooperation and self-reliance among local residents." She emphasized that the rise in the number of Progressive RTs reflects the community's determination and commitment to uplifting and strengthening the local economy together. Meanwhile, the chairman of the Bukit Durian KRT in Tanah Merah, Akmal Ramli, highlighted the allocation of RM65,300 received to expand the turkey-farming project that has been carried out on a small scale since 2020. He mentioned that continuous support from agencies such as JPNIN, the Department of Veterinary Services, and the Department of Agriculture has further strengthened the community's turkey-farming project. "Through the technical guidance provided, including the use of modern coops, improved turkey healthcare practices, and more efficient feed-management methods, the community is now able to manage the livestock in a more organized and effective manner," he said. He noted that they currently have five turkey breeds - Red Bourbon, Black Spanish, Royal Palm, and Blue Slate - which are relatively easy to care for but require close monitoring from one day old up to five months. Akmal Ramli added that the group plans to further expand the scale of the farm and develop turkeys as a signature product that represents the community.