Increase Felda incentives to RM2,000, NGO urges Putrajaya

A Felda-linked NGO, Generasi, has urged the government to fulfil its election manifesto and help Felda settlers by writing off their loans.

PETALING JAYA: An NGO fighting for Felda settlers has lauded the government’s move to continue giving RM1,500 as the cost of living allowance and advance loan payment.

Pertubuhan Generasi Warisan Kebangsaan (Generasi) chairman Roslan Md Isa said the amount announced was no different from what was given by the previous Barisan Nasional (BN) government.

There was no special incentive from the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government, he added.

Roslan said by right, the government should raise the amount from RM1,500 to RM2,000, in view of the rising cost of living.

“Then, the government will look like it is doing better than the previous government.

“The settlers’ cost of living allowance is a debt. Whether it is RM1,000, RM1,500 or RM2,000, it is still a debt and must be paid back.

“But with the rising cost of living, essential goods are expensive. It is reasonable for the government to raise the allowance,” he told FMT.

Roslan was commenting on an announcement made by Economic Affairs Minister Mohamed Azmin Ali on the continuation of the incentive at its current rate of RM1,500.

The decision was made after Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad disagreed with the move to reduce the incentive to RM1,000, as proposed by the Felda board of directors.

Mahathir had been of the view that a reduction would put a further strain on the lives of settlers.

The board of directors had initially made the proposal on March 28, owing to its dire financial situation.

Meanwhile, Generasi has also demanded that the government fulfil its election manifesto to help Felda settlers.

“The government must stop its rhetoric. Just fulfil what was promised in the manifesto.

“The settlers chose PH because they were excited over what was promised, including writing off their debts.

“They should expedite the scheduled revenue payments, which is twice a month. Help to settle the settlers’ debts,” he said.

Roslan also said Felda must be managed by qualified individuals.

“We also ask for the setting up of a royal commission of inquiry to resolve the problems plaguing Felda,” he added. - FMT