Elderly siblings keep family’s farming tradition flourishing

KUALA KRAI: Every morning before the sun becomes too unforgiving, Kamariah and Azmi Sidik head to a small plot of land that has sustained their family for generations.

For more than 30 years, the siblings have continued cultivating groundnuts and corn on the 0.2-ha farm in Kampung Jelutar inherited from their forefathers, determined to keep the family’s farming tradition alive while earning enough to support themselves.

At 67, Kamariah says the work is demanding but deeply rewarding. “Growing groundnuts and corn isn’t too difficult. We just need to make sure the crops receive enough fertiliser and keep the weeds under control,” she told Bernama.

Groundnuts are ready for harvest after about three months and 10 days, while corn takes around 2.5 months.

The siblings begin work as early as 7am, stopping around 11am before the midday heat becomes unbearable. Their children also lend a hand whenever they can.

Kamariah sells groundnuts for RM7 per kg and corn for RM1 a cob, with the income covering her daily expenses, although earnings vary depending on each harvest.

“Thank God, it’s enough for our daily needs,” she said.

Like many small-scale farmers, however, the pair contend with challenges beyond their control. Caterpillars, ants and rats regularly threaten their crops, while prolonged dry spells make it difficult to irrigate the farm.

Azmi, 69, said although the land sits near a river, water levels often become too low during the dry season.

He hopes the authorities can provide assistance in the form of subsidies for a water pump, grass-cutting machine and fertiliser to help reduce operating costs.

Such support, he said, would make it easier for them to continue caring for the land that has supported their family for generations.