Tenom:The Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK), in collaboration with the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), has allocated RM3.9 million for 14 new smallholder farm road projects in Tenom, Kemabong, and Keningau.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad highlighted the significance of these projects in addressing the connectivity challenges faced by smallholders in rural areas, especially for the transportation of their agricultural goods. She emphasized that the improved road infrastructure would support economic activities for those involved in oil palm, rubber, and other agricultural sectors, thereby aiding in income enhancement.

The minister noted the importance of these facilities for the plantation and commodities sector in rural regions, where many smallholders are engaged in cultivating oil palm, rubber, and other crops. The ministry's assistance is expected to facilitate easier transportation of produce, leading to increased income for smallholders.

Additionally, the ministry has approved RM300,000 to widen the concrete road between Kampung Kemabong Lama and Kampung Kemabong Baru, improving residents' mobility and aiding in the transport of farm produce.

Beyond infrastructure, KPK and MPOB have also contributed RM7,300 to Sekolah Kebangsaan Kemabong. This funding is aimed at developing the School Digital Interaction Class (KIDS) and providing school clothing for 50 underprivileged students.

Tenom Member of Parliament Riduan Rubin, present at the event, expressed support for the 14 projects, noting that they would directly benefit smallholders by easing the transportation of their agricultural products. He stated that the enhanced farm roads would not only facilitate agricultural activities but also reduce transportation costs and time, ultimately boosting smallholders' income.