A new RM2.3 million pump house in Melaka is set to improve irrigation for 80.9 hectares of padi fields, benefiting 35 local farmers and boosting rice production.
MELAKA: A new RM2.3 million pump house project in Kampung Pinang Batang Tiga, Klebang, is now fully operational. It is expected to benefit nearly 80.9 hectares of padi fields cultivated by about 35 local farmers.
State Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security Exco Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said the project was a collaboration between the Melaka State Government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. He explained it aims to improve the irrigation system for padi cultivation, addressing a long-standing water shortage issue.
“The issue of water shortage faced by rice farmers here has been ongoing for many years,” he told reporters after visiting the pump house. He stated the facility can now channel a more stable water supply to the rice fields, solving persistent problems for farmers.
Dr Muhamad Akmal described this project as the first phase of irrigation improvements for the area. He revealed a larger-scale project, estimated to cost RM43 million, will follow within three to four years, drawing water from Bukit Rambai.
“This small-scale project is being implemented as an initial step to help rice farmers in Kampung Pinang while waiting for the larger irrigation project to be completed,” he said.
Klebang assemblyman Datuk Lim Ban Hong, who also attended the visit, expressed appreciation for the project’s early completion. He noted it was originally scheduled for June but was finished in March due to effective cooperation.
Lim said the improved infrastructure is expected to significantly increase padi yields. He explained that previously, 0.4 hectares produced about 1.5 to two tonnes of rice.
“With a better irrigation system, we hope the harvest can increase to about 2.5 tonnes or more,” he said. He added this will boost local rice supply and help increase farmers’ incomes, allowing them to adopt more modern farming methods.
The Sun Malaysia
