Kepala Batas:A total of RM56.92 million in benefits under the Paddy Crop Takaful Scheme (STTP) has been disbursed to padi farmers nationwide since its introduction in 2024.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu stated that STTP benefits amounting to RM12.36 million were disbursed in 2024 and RM5.06 million in 2025 in the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) areas.

Currently, RM2.42 million in STTP benefits is being disbursed in stages to 541 padi farmers in MADA areas, with an additional RM423,930 undergoing assessment and verification. This announcement was made during the 2026 Kedah padi farmers engagement programme at the MADA H-II Kepala Batas Area Farmers' Organisation (PPK) premise.

Since October, another RM5.12 million has also been disbursed to 1,000 padi farmers outside MADA under the Kedah State Farmers' Organisation Authority (LPP). The payments are credited directly to recipients to aid in preparation for the next planting season.

The scheme aims to protect padi farmers against losses from natural disasters, pest attacks, and crop diseases, offering coverage up to RM3,000 per hectare per season. Mohamad urged farmers to register for STTP through their respective PPKs to secure their livelihoods.

Efforts to enhance the country's padi production are also focusing on soil fertility. The MADANI government has allocated RM20 million under Budget 2026 for foliar fertilisers and soil fertility materials, involving MADA, KADA, and IADA Kerian.

Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah, Agrobank Group president, highlighted the significance of financial protection for farmers and noted that STTP's implementation in MADA areas has led to the opening of over 22,000 Agrobank accounts, enhancing access to financial services and direct benefit disbursement.