CHUKAI: Good relations between the federal and state governments will facilitate the implementation of development projects planned by the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) for the benefit of its settlers, said Felda chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.
He said without the cooperation of the state governments, it would be difficult for Felda to fulfil its role as an agency tasked with carrying out land development projects, agricultural activities, and industrial undertakings.
"For instance, there are a number of housing projects for new generation settlers in the state, like in Felda Kerteh 5, that were left abandoned following BN's defeat in the 14th General Election and the state government's lack of cooperation.
"After BN is no longer in power, the project could not continue since no one wants to bear the construction costs and so on," he told Bernama here.
Ahmad Shabery said this had raised concern among the new generation of Felda settlers who were in need of such facilities.
According to him, Felda had implemented the Felda New Generation Housing (PGBF) project since 2013 and was able to sell houses at below-market prices, but the programme could not continue due to the high subsidy issue.
"…as a result, many PGBF projects could not continue," he said.
However, Ahmad Shabery said Felda, which was always committed to providing basic facilities for settlers, including housing, would find the best solution and method to resolve the issue.
It includes providing a plot of land on which the settlers will build their own houses, in addition to establishing cooperation with the private sector to build homes in Felda areas.– BERNAMA