Amid the increasing cost of living and limited funding, poultry, flower, and pomelo farmers are eagerly anticipating the announcement of incentives in Budget 2024. The chairman of the Manjung Poultry Farmers Association, Datuk Tan Wooi Perng, expressed a hope for government support and the introduction of interest-free loans specifically for the poultry industry. Perng emphasized that the current interest rate, which exceeds 3%, is hindering the profitability of poultry farmers. Additionally, he mentioned the adverse effects of unpredictable weather on chicken health and growth, resulting in financial losses for farmers. Perng emphasized the need for assistance due to the transition from open farming to closed-house systems by 2024, which incurs additional costs. (Source: The Star)
Lee Peng Fo, the president of the Cameron Highlands Floriculturist Association, expressed a desire for incentives related to fertilizers and chemicals used in farming. He highlighted the high costs involved, mentioning that a tonne of fertilizer can range between RM2,000 and RM4,000, with farmers requiring approximately three tonnes per month. Fo also noted the significant increase in land rental prices after the COVID-19 pandemic—from RM2,000 to RM4,500 per year for 0.4ha of land. He hoped for government assistance, particularly in the form of tax exemptions, as the flower business is currently experiencing a 40% to 50% reduction. (Source: The Star)
Pomelo farmers in Tambun are anxiously anticipating positive news in the upcoming budget. Tan Swee Kong, a pomelo farm owner and spokesperson for the group, expressed hopes for incentives as well. He emphasized that the majority of pomelo farmers are small-scale growers facing financial difficulties. Kong stated that incentives for equipment and fertilizers would greatly benefit them, as they currently spend RM300 for a 50kg bag of fertilizer. Depending on the farm’s size, they require at least 10 bags per month. Kong also voiced the need for extensive promotion of pomelos by the government. He further highlighted the issue of diminishing land due to development, with 8.9ha taken away last year. Kong urged the Prime Minister, who is also their Member of Parliament, to address the issue of pending land titles, portraying the struggles of the farmers who are barely surviving. (Source: The Star)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
