Anwar orders MACC to investigate delays in fertiliser supplies to padi farmers

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has instructed the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to probe the delays in fertiliser delivery to padi farmers, following numerous complaints from the agricultural community. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to identify the reasons behind these supply delays, including an examination of the companies responsible for managing the supply process.

Anwar stated that the farmers raised the issue, submitting memoranda and objections to him. He cautioned that if the companies supplying fertilisers fail to meet their obligations, appropriate action should be taken, including termination of contracts, seeking alternative suppliers, and, if necessary, legal proceedings. Anwar highlighted that padi farmers are already grappling with other issues such as adverse weather conditions and water supply problems, making them particularly vulnerable to delays in receiving crucial agricultural inputs.

He stressed the importance of strengthening accountability in the management of government allocations to prevent such burdens on farmers and the overall agriculture sector. Earlier reports indicated that the delay in fertiliser supply could adversely impact domestic rice production, potentially reducing Malaysia's rice self-sufficiency rate and increasing reliance on imported rice.