EMPOWER NAFAS TO PROTECT FARMERS - PPK LEADERS

SUNGAI PETANI, Jan 9 (Bernama) -- Area Farmers’ Organisations (PPKs) in Kedah are urging for the empowerment of the National Farmers’ Organisation (NAFAS) in fertiliser distribution, opposing any move to privatise the process.

PPK Merbok board member Hamdi Said voiced concerns over rumours of plans to privatise fertiliser distribution to farmers.

“NAFAS’ role must be strengthened. Privatisation will affect farmers as private entities are profit-driven.

"NAFAS, on the other hand, has always prioritised the welfare of farmers and members, redistributing its profits through dividends,” he said during an interview in Kampung Padang Tok Sora, Merbok, today.

He added that economic uncertainties posed significant risks to farmers should privatisation take place.

“Small-scale farmers will be most affected, there have been situations where they could only purchase rice in one to two kg bags despite cultivating padi themselves. If NAFAS continues its role, this situation can be alleviated, and farmers’ livelihoods can be safeguarded,” Hamdi said.

PPK Guar Cempedak chairman Jamaludin Hussin echoed these sentiments, advocating for an expanded role for NAFAS, including conducting soil pH studies tailored to different areas for better fertiliser formulation.

“There’s no need for privatisation. Let NAFAS continue its role but expand its functions to include soil pH studies and customised fertiliser production for higher padi yields.

"Currently, all areas receive the same fertiliser, regardless of terrain. Customisation based on soil conditions can boost productivity,” he said.

He noted that yields in some areas averaged five to six tonnes, with some reaching seven to eight tonnes of padi.

“If fertiliser quality is improved to suit soil conditions, yields are expected to increase further,” Jamaludin added.

He also confirmed that PPK Guar Cempedak had not experienced delays in receiving fertiliser supplies from NAFAS.

“So far, distribution has been smooth, possibly due to the proximity of NAFAS’ factory to our PPK.

"However, we maintain constant communication with NAFAS to ensure uninterrupted supply,” he said.

Meanwhile, PPK MADA Coordinating Committee chairman Ishak Taib called on the government to expedite the fertiliser supply contract process exclusively for NAFAS to ensure seamless distribution.

“The current fertiliser supply system is functioning well, whether for compound fertiliser, mixed fertiliser, urea, or NPK.

"NAFAS’ distribution has always adhered to schedule. Improvements can be made in management to further streamline lower-level distribution,” he said.

Ishak highlighted that there were 27 PPKs in Kedah and Perlis across four regions.

“Since the 1970s, NAFAS has been supplying fertilisers efficiently.

"I am concerned that other suppliers may not fully understand the intricacies of padi planting or the distribution process, and any delays could significantly impact yields,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of strong collaboration between NAFAS and PPKs through the farmers’ organisation network as a key factor in ensuring the system’s effectiveness for the benefit of all stakeholders.

-- BERNAMA