Kota bharu: The government has approved an upfront plowing incentive of RM200 per hectare to help rice farmers manage rising cost for fuel and agricultural inputs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Faizul Mustafa, the General Manager of the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA), highlighted that this assistance is particularly critical for farmers under KADA's supervision who are preparing to begin the 1/2026 season.

Faizul emphasised that the increasing costs of wages, fertilizer, seeds, and diesel have placed significant financial pressure on farmers. He noted that the incentive will help cover initial planting expenses, thereby ensuring the continuity of rice cultivation and maintaining the nation's food supply.

In addition to this financial incentive, KADA has started providing diesel assistance to eligible farmers to power water pumps, ensuring consistent irrigation for paddy fields despite the challenging conditions. This decision follows an announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who confirmed that the government would provide the special incentive to prevent disruptions in rice planting activities.

Furthermore, the government is also conducting cloud seeding operations to address water shortages caused by the prolonged drought, especially in the northern areas of the Peninsula.