21/09/05 BENTONG = The Government will raise its loan to Felda settlersinvolved in schemes to RM75 from RM50 per acre (0.4ha) from Oct 1,announced Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

"Usually, a settler has 10 acres and receives RM500 a month, but with theloan increase, he will receive RM750 a month" the Deputy Prime Ministertold reporters after opening the Felda Museum in Lurah Bilut, near here.

Najib said the loan increase resulted from the appeal of the settlers, whowere facing difficulties coping with the rising cost of living, includingthe increase in the price of petrol and diesel.

The loan is given until the settlers' land produces yield - 36 months foroil palm and 72 months for rubber.

Najib, who is also chairman of the Cabinet committee on Felda affairs,said the Government decided to review the loan after considering theappeal from the settlers, and also in view of their age.

Most of the 22,714 settlers are more than 60 years old.

"More than 60% of them are already old. They also have to support theirschool-going children,'' he added, saying that the loan repayment periodwould also be increased from 10 to 15 years.