Farmers association proposes measures to support agro-sector
Life honorary advisor to the Bintangor Farmers Association, James Wong, highlights the needs for a revamp in Sarawak’s agricultural policy.
In this regard, he has proposed a number of measures to empower farmers across the region.
“Besides implementing new techniques and adopting new technologies, including the use of machinery, we advocate for the allocation of land to landless farmers by offering each of them a five-acre leasehold lot, valid for a 10-year period.
“We also see the importance of diversifying crops.
“Adding on, insecticide and fertiliser subsidies should be provided to farmers irrespective of their racial backgrounds, while agriculture product prices should be stabilised by offering subsidies during periods of low prices.
“There is also a need to introduce a ‘Crop Protection Insurance Policy’ to safeguard (farmers) against floods, winds, jungle fires, wild pests, and other disasters,” he said in a statement issued in connection with a recent seminar conducted by the Bintangor Farmers Association.
The session covered topics on the utilisation of insecticides and fertilisers, provisions available under Employees Provident Fund (EPF) for farmers, housewives and self-employed individuals, as well as coverage under the Social Security Organisation (Socso) for protection against accidents and injuries.
Adding on, Wong – also the president of the Federation of Wong’s Association Sarawak – said the Madani Government, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, had committed to providing RM500 in cash assistance each to new EPF members below the age of 60 who enrolled in i-Saraan Plan.
Meanwhile, in his remarks, Bintangor Farmers Association chairman Yek Choon Miao pledged unwavering support towards advocating for the welfare and future prospects of its members.
The seminar also held the presentation of contributions from federal Deputy Natural Resources and Sustainability Minister and Sarikei MP Dato Sri Huang Tiong Si, and Meradong assemblyman Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing.