Selangor: The Selangor government is undertaking a comprehensive review to address the issue of declining paddy purchase prices, which have been a growing concern among local farmers. This initiative aims to identify potential mechanisms that could alleviate the financial strain on farmers caused by the reduced prices.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari highlighted that the issue was a key topic of discussion during a recent state government executive council meeting. He noted that Datuk Ir Izham Hashim, the state Infrastructure and Agriculture executive council member, is currently assessing additional measures to tackle the problem effectively. The review will consider factors such as paddy quality and yield to ensure a holistic approach to resolving the issue.

Amirudin mentioned that one of the strategies under consideration is providing assistance to farmers who have been adversely affected. The decline in paddy purchase prices, from RM1,650 per metric tonne last season to RM1,400 this season, has impacted the income of around 4,000 farmers in Sungai Besar. This drop in prices is occurring despite an improvement in paddy quality and a reduction in disease risk.

In another development, Amirudin discussed the Selangor government’s plans to save up to RM300 million over the next decade through the Selangor Children’s Heritage Fund (TAWAS). He explained that the first savings from the fund would be initiated starting in 2026, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the initiative. TAWAS, established in June 2008, is a welfare program designed to support Selangor-born babies, ensuring financial security for future generations.