ISKANDAR PUTERI, March 20 — A total of 4,862 agricultural entrepreneurs were affected by the floods in Johor, suffering a total of RM35.525 million in damages.
State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry and Rural Development Committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip said the figure included agricultural entrepreneurs from various sub-sectors such as crop, livestock, fisheries and the agro-industry.
He said in order to speed up assistance, several alternative measures have been taken by relevant departments and agencies, including conducting an initial census of flood-affected areas to obtain preliminary loss estimates.
“Overall, the government is very concerned about the plight of flood victims, especially among entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector.
“Apart from considering the welfare of the entrepreneurs, the assistance provided is also important for the resumption of agricultural and food production to ensure the state’s food security,” he said when replying to a question during the Johor state assembly meeting here today.
Speaking to reporters later, he assured that the allocations channelled through the state government will be distributed to the victims through the relevant departments within a month.
He also urged those affected by the floods to immediately file a report to the relevant departments, attached with photographs and videos, as well as a police report for the departments to make an assessment.
“We do not want others to take advantage of the situation. Maybe they are not involved in agriculture but lodge a report. So, photographs or videos are crucial during the incident (floods),” said Zahari.
On allegations about the bureaucracy faced by agricultural entrepreneurs, he said he was aware of the matter and had reminded the departments to carry out proper evaluations.
— Bernama
