Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate the issue of delays in the supply of Fertiliser 3 to paddy farmers in the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) area in Kedah. He emphasized that these delays should not have occurred and must not be allowed to recur.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, stated that if any wrongdoing was detected, necessary action should be taken to terminate the supply contract, including legal prosecution against those responsible or any companies involved. He questioned the responsibility of the company entrusted with the supply, urging for accountability and immediate action against recurrent failures.
Anwar highlighted the importance of protecting farmers and ensuring they are not victimized by such issues. He called for action and transparency, suggesting that MACC should review the process thoroughly and bring any culprits to court if necessary.
The Prime Minister also addressed the broader challenges faced by paddy farmers, such as water supply issues and adverse weather conditions, stressing the need to prevent additional burdens that could disrupt their livelihoods. He remarked that the delay in fertiliser supply had tarnished the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security's (MAFS) reputation, despite the ministry's efforts to support farmers.
Anwar commended MAFS Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and the ministry staff for their commitment to aiding paddy farmers, but noted the damage caused by the supply delays had negatively impacted the government's image. He assured that the government remains committed to supporting farmers and those in the agriculture and livestock sectors.
The delay in fertiliser distribution had previously been highlighted by Pengkalan Kundor assemblywoman Mardhiyyah Johari, who urged the government to consider compensation for the affected paddy farmers. Reports indicated that the delay had impacted approximately 38,000 farmers across 78,117 hectares in the MADA area.
Mohamad Sabu later confirmed that distribution of the Paddy Fertiliser 3 commenced last Thursday, with full distribution expected to be completed within 10 days.