Govt Approves RM16 Mln Allocation To Drive Sustainable Pepper Farming In 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 9 (Bernama) -- The government has approved an allocation of RM16 million for the Pepper Farming Sustainability Programme for 2026 under the first rolling plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), said Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad.

She said the programme concentrates on new planting schemes that focus on the production of premium pepper, with the aim of helping farmers manage pepper planting areas in a more sustainable and competitive manner.

“The assistance provided includes the supply of agricultural inputs such as fertilisers and dolomite, the provision of incentives for pepper cuttings and support pillars, as well as technical advisory services.

“During the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) period, a total of 5,531 pepper farmers benefited from this programme, involving a total planted area of 786.7 hectares,” she said when winding up the debate on the motion of thanks for the royal address for her ministry in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Over the same period, Noraini added, 12,449 farmers with a total planted area of 2,216 hectares also received assistance for the maintenance of mature pepper farms, particularly to enhance productivity and output.

-- BERNAMA