KUALA LUMPUR: Second generation Felda settlers should step outside their small communities and make efforts to get closer to the public, said its chairman Tan Sri Shahrir Abdul Samad.
During an interview on TV9’s Nasi Lemak Kopi O programme this morning, Shahrir said outsiders are developing misconceptions about the Felda community, as many of them stick to their own kind.
“Many people think that Felda is a limited community and we must change that perception.
“Therefore, we held the ‘Ekspresi Felda Negaraku Malaysia’ carnival in the hope of fostering (closer) ties between the Felda community and the public,” he said.
Shahrir added that by integrating with the public, second generation Felda settlers will also broaden their horizons.
Meanwhile, Shahrir said the public is welcome to attend the carnival to get a better understanding about Felda.
“There are many things about Felda (that the public is not aware of), such as the participation of non-Malays for the land scheme. Therefore, through this programme, the public will get to know Felda better.
“Several ministries and government agencies will also take part in the carnival,” he added.
Shahrir said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is expected to make several announcements on Sunday, in conjunction with Felda Settlers’ Day.
More than 50,000 people are expected to attend the carnival to be held in front of the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya.
Among activities lined up for the event are sales and exhibitions on small and medium-sized industry products, food trucks, the 'Explore Felda with Upin and Ipin' programme and the National Transformation 2050 (TN50) talk programme.
Since its inception in 1957, Felda has helped over 110,000 settlers and their families earn a living.