Felda Palong 7 settlers urge anti-graft body to probe RM80 million palm oil project

A group of second-generation settlers from Felda Palong 7 is calling on the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM) to investigate a palm oil development and replanting project estimated to cost between RM70 million and RM80 million. Mohd Syahrizal Md Yusuf, a representative of the settlers, officially submitted information to the SPRM regarding issues related to the supply of oil palm seedlings, associated costs, transportation charges, and the execution of the replanting program in the scheme.

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This complaint was made to Felda headquarters, Felda Wilayah and the scheme about five to six months ago.

The project involves replacing rubber trees with oil palms across 450 settler plots, a change deemed crucial for their long-term income. Syahrizal stated that complaints were lodged with Felda headquarters, Felda regional offices, and the scheme's management approximately five to six months ago. He highlighted concerns about work specifications, the selection of seedlings according to required standards, and various other matters affecting the 450 settlers, whose livelihoods depend on this project for the next 25 years.

Settlers are worried about a recurrence of issues similar to those experienced during crop development about 17 years ago, which negatively impacted their earnings. The previous rubber cultivation was reportedly unsuccessful, with issues including the supply of allegedly substandard seedlings that did not meet specifications. "The first crop was rubber and it failed. We do not want the same thing to happen again. For this second development, we are rising up and speaking out to defend the rights of the settlers to ensure a more secure and stable future," Syahrizal explained.

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It involves work specifications, selection of seedlings according to specifications, measurements, and many things involving 450 settlers because the impact is for the next 25 years.

Syahrizal urged the SPRM to examine the oil palm seedlings, which are reportedly small and inconsistent in size after several deliveries. Some seedlings had not yet sprouted or reached a developmental stage suitable for thorough inspection. "The question is whether the supplied seedlings truly meet all the stipulated conditions and specifications. We also want the period and methods of seedling care at the transit site before planting to be inspected," he said. The complaint also raised questions about the quantity of seedlings delivered at one time, as well as their handling, storage, and care before planting. Additionally, Syahrizal requested an inspection of the planting distances, which are allegedly uneven and too close in some areas, and the construction of terraces on hilly terrain, which are reportedly inconsistent and require verification for technical specification compliance.

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The first crop was rubber and it failed. We do not want the same thing to happen again. For this second development, we are rising up and speaking out to defend the rights of the settlers to ensure a more secure and stable future.

"We also want the price of seedlings and transportation charges to be compared with offers or costs received by settlers in other Felda schemes, including Felda Teloi Timur," he added. Syahrizal also requested the SPRM to scrutinize the process of selecting and appointing suppliers, tender documents, and pricing.

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The question is whether the supplied seedlings truly meet all the stipulated conditions and specifications. We also want the period and methods of seedling care at the transit site before planting to be inspected.