Zahid proposes Bumiputera land corporation

 

Deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi says a Bumiputera land corporation would ensure the preservation of racial demographics and guarantee the sustainability of Bumiputera areas for agriculture, manufacturing, and residential development.

PETALING JAYA: Deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today proposed the establishment of a Bumiputera land corporation to increase the community’s land ownership.

Zahid, who is also rural and regional development minister, said the move would help ensure the preservation of Bumiputera land ownership as a foundation for economic stability and to safeguard national identity.

“I recommend that 20% of all leased agricultural land exceeding 50 acres and industrial land of more than 20 acres be managed by this corporation after the lease period expires or even if an extension is granted,” he said in his opening address at the Bumiputera economic congress.

He said this initiative would not only ensure the preservation of racial demographics in these areas but also guarantee the sustainability of Bumiputera areas for agriculture, manufacturing, and residential development.

“I believe this initiative can provide greater returns and opportunities for the Bumiputera to own a portion of the nation’s land assets.

“Through careful and strategic planning, each business area is expected to maximise benefits for the Bumiputera community, creating sustainable economic prosperity,” he added.

Zahid also suggested involving Bumiputeras in large-scale food crop agricultural activities, similar to those of Felda and Felcra.

“To achieve this, I propose the establishment of an entity that can play a role in financing and developing Bumiputera land or group-owned Bumiputera land with the potential for food crop cultivation.

“I believe that through the same approach, in the coming years, domestic food crop production will be able to meet domestic needs in line with food security efforts,” he said.

He also proposed the establishment of Bumiputera health and education endowments.

“This endeavour can help address the issues of rising healthcare and education costs for groups such as the underprivileged, the elderly, and other affected target groups,” he said. - FMT