12,500ha of Kelantan padi fields face flood risk during monsoon

Kota Bharu, Malaysia - Approximately 12,500 hectares of rice fields overseen by the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (Kada) could be at risk of flooding during the upcoming Northeast Monsoon, according to Kada chairman Khalid Abdul Samad. As of October 18, 56% of the 25,000 hectares of rice cultivation areas under the agency have been harvested for the first season of 2026.

The remaining 44%, including 11,000 hectares scheduled for harvesting next month and another 1,500 hectares in December, are primarily located in the Tumpat area and could be affected by potential flooding. Kada has taken five measures to prepare for the monsoon, such as maintaining drainage systems, coordinating water gate operations, operating seven active drainage pumps, scheduling the second rice planting season, and relocating assets to safer areas.

Khalid revealed that the average deduction rate of around 23% due to moisture and impurities during the first harvest season of 2026 is deemed reasonable and no complaints have been received from farmers. Nonetheless, Kada will closely monitor the grading process and investigate any complaints regarding deductions that are considered excessive or unreasonable.