Mada Rice Fields to Become Paddy ‘Factory’! RM1 Billion Invested, 5 Seasons Every 2 Years—But Can Farmers Keep Up?
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will officiate a RM1 billion project in the Muda Agriculture Development Authority (Mada) area on February 27, aimed at increasing paddy production through a five-season system every two years.
According to Mada Chairman, Datuk Dr Ismail Salleh, this project, which was announced by Anwar during the tabling of Budget 2025 last October, involves the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Pedu Dam and the construction of 15 blocks of tertiary irrigation systems for Mada rice fields.
The project is expected to take four years to complete, followed by six years of maintenance, and will be given full responsibility to MMC Engineering.
Dr Ismail expressed his confidence that this project will run smoothly after holding a meeting with MMC management.
Previously, Agriculture Minister Mohamad Sabu also witnessed the concession agreement for a project worth RM526.37 million for the irrigation system and RM234.86 million for the rehabilitation of the Pedu Dam.
This mega project will boost paddy production but what will be the impact on farmers? Burden or livelihood?
