TAPAH: The increase in the monsoon season aid (BMT) by RM200 is proof of the values instilled in the Malaysian Family to prosper together and see that the welfare of all levels of society is taken care of, said Rural Development (KPLB) Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid.

He said the aid introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob when he was in the ministry had greatly helped smallholders and rubber tappers whose income was affected during the monsoon season.

"As the prime minister understands the plight of these people, this year through the presentation of the 2023 Budget, the BMT allocation was once again approved and increased to RM800 from RM600.

"This BMT aid is also extended to be enjoyed by FELDA settlers who cultivate rubber tress," he said in his speech at Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob's Engagement Programme with FELCRA Berhad participants, Risda smallholders and JAKOA Orang Asli settlers at Merdeka Arena here today.

Meanwhile, he said the interim profit distribution payment that was implemented by FELCRA Berhad showed the agency's continued commitment in maintaining the wellbeing of its participants

"I urge the participants to continue to support FELCRA Berhad and am confident that as KBLB's implementing agency, FELCRA will continue its efforts towards rural urbanisation," he said.

On Oct 7, Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz reportedly said that the BMT for rubber smallholders in the country was increased to RM800 from RM600.

The BMT was introduced since 2017 involving an allocation of RM256 million whereby RM200 monthly payment was disbursed for four months to benefit 320,000 smallholders.

Earlier in Budget 2020, the RM600 BMT was paid in two installments, the first RM300 in November 2022 and the remaining, the following month.

--BERNAMA