KADA Seeks Additional RM1 Million to Combat Super El Nino's Impact

The Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) is seeking an additional RM1 million from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) in anticipation of the Super El Nino phenomenon.

KADA Chairman Khalid Abdul Samad stated that the additional allocation is earmarked for the purchase of mobile water pumps. These pumps are intended to ensure water supply in areas facing potential shortages.

"We are aware of the warning and have applied for an additional budget of RM1 million," Khalid explained after officiating an award ceremony. "The additional budget includes the purchase of mobile pumps. The application was just made, and if approved, it can help mitigate the extreme hot weather and heatwaves to some extent."

While the Kelantan River is expected to provide adequate water resources, KADA acknowledges that the capacity to utilize this supply necessitates the supplementary funding. Media reports have previously alerted the public to the risks of more extreme hot weather and heatwaves this year due to the strengthening Super El Nino.

Khalid also shared updates on rice cultivation, noting that 17% of the 5,000 hectares of paddy fields in the second season last year achieved yields exceeding five metric tons per hectare. Additionally, 41% reached four to 4.9 metric tons, while 40% yielded less than four metric tons.

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We are aware of the warning and have applied for an additional budget of RM1 million. The additional budget includes the purchase of mobile pumps. The application was just made, and if approved, it can help mitigate the extreme hot weather and heatwaves to some extent.