Anwar Ibrahim pledges increased agricultural funding amid fertilizer delay probe

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced plans to increase allocations for the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in the 2027 Budget. This move aims to bolster food security and support farmers, paddy planters, and fishermen following positive performance in sectors such as pineapple exports and local onion production.

Anwar emphasized that while financial aid, such as the RM400 monthly assistance for smallholders, is being provided, it is not a total solution. He urged civil servants to work with excellence and integrity to ensure funds reach their intended targets without leakage or corruption.

Concurrently, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM) has opened an investigation into the delayed distribution of compound fertilizer (Baja 3) to paddy farmers in Kedah. The delay affects approximately 38,000 farmers within the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) region. The investigation, conducted under Section 18 of the MACC Act 2009, is examining both potential criminal elements and governance failures in the contract awarding and supply process.