Perak government to aid 1,265 farmers facing water shortage and income loss

The Perak state government is set to offer assistance to around 1,265 farmers in Perak Tengah who have been impacted by water supply problems and subsequent income loss for their initial crop this year. The state's rural development, plantations, agriculture, and food industry executive council, Datuk Mohd. Zolkafly Harun, confirmed that the issue will be deliberated during the upcoming State Executive Council Meeting.

Harun stated that the state government conducted a survey in the affected areas approximately two weeks prior, identifying the challenges faced by farmers, particularly in Bota, Perak Tengah. "Inshallah, the state government has reviewed the situation and will announce measures for the farmers facing water supply issues and income loss for their first crop," he said. "I am fully confident that the state government will give serious attention based on their needs, income loss, and production."

Currently, only farmers in Perak Tengah have been identified as affected. Harun mentioned that his department has not received information about other paddy cultivation areas experiencing similar conditions. He added that the water supply problem is not solely due to hot weather but also involves technical issues disrupting irrigation systems. Some water pumps belonging to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) were damaged by sand, hindering water supply to the paddy fields. The situation is being addressed with cooperation from Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and JPS.