ALL government ministries and agencies have been directed not to treat the Federal Land Development Authority, or Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), as a separate or isolated entity, but instead to incorporate it fully into the country’s broader national development agenda.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said FELDA must be integrated into government development initiatives, particularly in the areas of education, social welfare and infrastructure, rather than being left to function independently as in the past.
“Do not leave FELDA as a separate or isolated area. Yes, it used to be that way, and FELDA had the capacity to develop on its own.
“But I say it should not be like that. Every government facility, whether in education, social services or any other area, must include FELDA as one of the areas and as part of the nation’s development projects.”
Speaking during a session titled ‘Sesi Amanat Perdana Menteri Bersama Warga Kumpulan FELDA’, the Prime Minister revealed that hundreds of millions of ringgit had been channelled to FELDA areas over the past year to support improvements and development programmes.
“That is why, within a year, I have channelled hundreds of millions of ringgit to FELDA areas for improvements, and I have asked FELDA’s management and its board members to provide their views on what more we should undertake,” he said.
Anwar also commended FELDA for incorporating digital transformation into its operations, describing the move as essential for improving efficiency and strengthening the competitiveness of Malaysia’s plantation sector.
He noted that the organisation has begun showing signs of recovery after navigating a period of significant challenges.
According to the Prime Minister, recent reports indicate stronger cooperation between FELDA’s leadership, management teams and relevant ministries, which has contributed to improved operational performance and productivity.
“When all parties are willing to work as one team, we can witness change and better performance.
“I see extraordinary determination among the leadership, management and workers within the FELDA family to restore the dignity of this institution and ensure its success in the future.
“If we have clear determination and focus, we can create a new chapter in history. We do not want FELDA to keep looking backwards, although its past legacy cannot be erased.
“But look at the latest performance figures, the increase in production output, and the improved policies in implementing better programmes.
“Clearly, the FELDA community has demonstrated capabilities and abilities that are truly commendable,” he said.
He further praised FELDA’s management for its openness in accepting the views and suggestions he had put forward to ensure the institution’s recovery process could be implemented effectively.
Reflecting on past challenges, he said several difficult decisions had previously been taken, including the move to remove a FELDA-linked company from the stock market.
However, he said the decision had ultimately served as a catalyst to strengthen the organisation’s position and chart a new direction.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the economic concept of creative destruction as a useful lesson in efforts to rebuild the agency.
“The collapse that occurred must serve as a lesson so that mistakes such as leakages, weak governance and greed are not repeated.
“From that experience, we rebuild with new ideas, more transparent management, and strong principles of trust and accountability,” he said.
Anwar emphasised that FELDA’s role extends beyond economic activities, noting that the agency also carries significant social responsibilities in supporting settler communities across the country.
Unlike private corporations, he said, FELDA must continue to provide social amenities, education support and welfare services to the communities living within its settlements. - March 5, 2026
