By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 14: The public has been urged to remain calm, as Malaysia’s food supply is assured to be sufficient for the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
In a Bernama news, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, said key staples such as rice, chicken, vegetables, and fruits are adequately stocked, at least until May or June this year.
“At this time, there is no need for worry. We can celebrate Hari Raya calmly while practicing prudent spending, as advised by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“Rice, chicken, eggs, fish, beef, buffalo meat, fresh milk, vegetables, and fruits are all sufficient at least until May and June. The public should not panic,” he said during a press conference following a special Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Friday (March 13).
He also highlighted that initiatives such as the Agro Madani Sale and Rahmah Sale will continue to be expanded, ensuring Malaysians can access affordable food supplies.
The ministry is further boosting the availability of vegetables and fish through the ongoing Madani Community initiative.
“Currently, 5,000 locations and operators are part of this programme, and we will intensify efforts to increase food supplies, especially within local communities,” he said.
On rising costs of oil, diesel, and other commodities, Mohamad assured that the Ministry of Finance (MOF) will provide guidance as needed.
He also clarified that most of Malaysia’s food imports do not transit through the Strait of Hormuz, but are sourced from countries including India, Pakistan, Brazil, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, and ASEAN nations.
“Prolonged instability in the Middle East may impact transportation and prices, but KPKM will consult the Ministry of Finance for any necessary actions,” he said.
Earlier, the Prime Minister reported that the special Cabinet meeting reviewed Malaysia’s fiscal position and closely monitored developments in Iran following recent regional conflicts.
The Middle East crisis began on Feb 28 when the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, prompting Iran to retaliate against US interests in the region. Iran has now mandated that tankers using the strategic Strait of Hormuz obtain official approval and has pledged to bar US and allied vessels from transiting the passage. — DayakDaily
