Tenom: A total of RM3.9 million has been allocated for 14 Smallholders’ Farm Road (JLPK) projects in Tenom, Kemabong and Keningau to improve infrastructure and access to agricultural areas.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said the projects comprised those already completed and currently being implemented.
She said better farm road facilities were particularly important in rural areas as they would facilitate smallholders’ movement, as well as the transportation of agricultural produce and commodities to the market.
Noraini said improved infrastructure would also ease access to farms, including transporting agricultural supplies into the areas and produce out to collection points.
She said this when met during the Pemimpin Bersama Warga Kampung Kemabong Lama programme here.
At the programme, Noraini also symbolically presented RM452,300 in allocations for three projects in Kemabong, including RM300,000 for the Kampung Kemabong JLPK project, RM145,000 for the construction of Surau Al-Barakah in Kampung Kemabong Lama and RM7,300 for the development of the School Digital Interaction Class (KIDS).
Surau Al-Barakah has a special distinction as its construction was funded through personal contributions from Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) staff nationwide, without using official MPOB allocations.
Meanwhile, the ministry is also looking into widening the concrete road linking Kampung Kemabong Lama and Kampung Kemabong Baru to improve convenience and facilities for residents.
The programme also highlighted the success of KPSM Kemabong Tenom Berhad, which became the first KPSM in Malaysia to open a petrol station, demonstrating the ability of smallholders’ organisations to expand economic activities and generate benefits for members and the local community.
