Kuala Lumpur: A total of RM22.28 million has been allocated for infrastructure development in paddy cultivation areas in Sabah this year, said Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. This allocation is part of the broader RM216.98 million provided by the government under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) to enhance paddy cultivation infrastructure in the state. The initiatives include constructing secondary canals such as Jawi Jawi and Tempasuk Utara, among other related projects in IADA Kota Belud, Sabah, with a total budget of RM33 million.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the development plan also comprises Package 1c(4) – 1c(4c), which involves the supply and installation of pumps and related works at Sungai Jepun, IADA Kota Belud, amounting to RM15.2 million. Additionally, Package 1c(5) focuses on the improvement and renovation of the Marabau Area in IADA Kota Belud, with a budget allocation of RM37.5 million.
Further efforts are directed towards Package 1d (1), which entails improvement and repair works of the Tempasuk Selatan Irrigation Scheme in IADA Kota Belud, costing RM29.9 million. Packages 1e(1) and 1e(2) involve the repair and upgrade of the Piasau Dundau main structure. These details were revealed during a question and answer session at the Dewan Negara, addressing a query from Senator Anna Bell @ Suzieana Perian about the allocation for developing paddy cultivation areas in Sabah.
Minister Mohamad Sabu emphasized that the completion of these development projects will significantly improve irrigation for Sabah’s paddy farmers. The enhanced infrastructure is expected to ensure sufficient water availability, maintain soil moisture, stimulate plant growth, and boost nutrient absorption efficiency.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is assessing priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to determine future paddy development initiatives in Sabah. The ministry plans to submit its proposals based on assessed priorities and project feasibility, with project approvals for implementation in 2026 to be announced by the Ministry of Economy following the tabling of Budget 2026.