KUCHING, March 28: The state government will ensure that essential goods and food supply reach the rural community during the extended period of the movement control order (MCO).
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has given assurance that food supply is sufficient for all the people in Sarawak especially those staying in longhouses and remote villages.
“What’s important now is the basic supply chain (of food) is available and that the food must also be available in rural areas.
“Another important aspect is the logistics to supply food to remote areas. We also need to ensure that retailers are selling the essential goods at control prices,” he told a press conference after a walkabout to check on food stocks and essential goods at supermarkets here today.
Abang Johari said the state has set up a sub-committee for the food supply chain, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, to counter disruption of food supply to the rural and remote areas during the restriction movement order.
Awang Tengah said he is working with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs to sort out the distribution of food for those living in remote areas.
“We are are engaging with the transporters and the help of armed forces personnel to deliver the food. At this point of time, what is important is the speed,” he said.
Awang Tengah added that the remote areas include Bario, Belaga, Ba’Kelalan, Baram, Pulau Bruit, Batang Ai and certain areas within Sri Aman.
He explained that the sub committee is working with the State Disaster Management Committee and resident and district offices to ensure that the food reaches the people in the rural areas.
On another note, Abang Johari welcomed the comprehensive economic stimulus package which amounted to RM250 billion announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin yesterday.
He said the state government will look into the implementation of the initiatives.
Abang Johari explained that he has instructed the state secretary and the Sarawak federal secretary to coordinate the implementation of the initiatives announced by Muhyiddin as soon as possible.
As for the losses arising from the extended MCO, Abang Johari said the state government will conduct an evaluation after the extended period of the order is over.
He added the state will also look into the welfare of the workers and those who are retrenched. — DayakDaily
