Malaysian Farmers Await Crucial Fertilizer Amidst Distribution Delays

Rice farmers in Malaysia are anxiously awaiting the third phase of fertilizer distribution from the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada), as only about 20% of the allocated fertilizer has been delivered. This slow progress raises questions about the effectiveness of supply contracts valued at over RM100 million.

Abdul Rashid Yob, chairman of the Malaysian Paddy Farmers Association (Pesawah), expressed deep concern. He noted that a significant portion of the rice crops have already reached the reproductive stage, a critical period where additional fertilizer is essential for proper grain development. Currently, only 120,000 out of an expected 600,000 bags of the third fertilizer phase have been distributed across Mada's areas, which cover 27 Area Farmers' Organizations (PPK).

"This fertilizer should be applied around 40 to 45 days of plant age, and at the latest around 60 days. Unfortunately, some areas have already passed the period they should have received fertilizer," Abdul Rashid stated. He highlighted the tight timeline, with August already underway and the supply period ending in October, questioning the feasibility of distributing the remaining 80% in just two months.

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This fertilizer should be applied around 40 to 45 days of plant age, and at the latest around 60 days. Unfortunately, some areas have already passed the period they should have received fertilizer.

This situation follows recent reports of farmers complaining about delayed distribution of the third or supplementary fertilizer, which could lead to yield losses of at least 20% this season. Pesawah estimates that a 20% loss per ton of padi, calculated at RM2 per kilogram (including floor price and subsidies), could mean a loss of approximately RM400 per ton for farmers. These losses could escalate significantly if crop loss reaches 40% or 50%.

Beyond delivery delays, farmers also report concerns about the quality of the fertilizer. Pesawah has brought these issues to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, urging immediate intervention. Abdul Rashid stressed the need for the government to reassess the involved companies' capacity to fulfill their contracts, rather than waiting until the supply period concludes to take action. "Don't let the farmers be the victims. The government has allocated a large sum, but if the fertilizer doesn't reach the farmers when needed, the benefit of the allocation won't fully reach the target group," he said.

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Don't let the farmers be the victims. The government has allocated a large sum, but if the fertilizer doesn't reach the farmers when needed, the benefit of the allocation won't fully reach the target group.