Malaysia: Agri Ministry Announces Aidilfitri Aid for Paddy Farmers & Fishermen from April 10

MAFS stated that payments will be provided to paddy farmers through the authorized agencies of the Farmers Organization Authority, the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA), and the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA).

Coastal fisherman will receive help from the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority, while upland fishermen will receive assistance from the Department of Fisheries. (DoF). MAFS further stated that the help will only be granted to Malaysian paddy growers and fishermen.

According to the ministry, eligible farmers include those who want to plant rice in 2022, are registered with government-appointed agencies, and are subject to particular conditions set by the MAFS Rice Industry Development Division.

Eligible fishermen are individuals who have been actively engaged in fishing activities, are registered with government organizations, and are subject to strict conditions specified by LKIM and DoF.

When presenting the good news on March 30, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that the support would benefit 850,000 rubber smallholders, paddy farmers, and fishermen at a cost of RM170 million.

In Budget 2023, the government offered RM300 monthly help for fishers, RM200 monthly assistance for paddy farmers for three months per season, and an increase in monsoon contribution from RM600 to RM800 for four months to rubber smallholders.