SHAH ALAM – Escalating tensions in the Middle East have raised concerns regarding Malaysia’s reliance on imported food, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen the nation’s food security framework amid global uncertainty.
Agricultural economist Prof Datuk Dr Mad Nasir Shamsudin stated that geopolitical conflicts indirectly disrupt global food supply chains, primarily through surging energy prices.
“A key transmission mechanism linking Middle East conflicts to global food supply is energy prices. When geopolitical tensions escalate, oil prices tend to rise, which increases transportation costs, raises fertiliser prices, and elevates overall food production expenses,” he told Sinar Daily.
He described that these pressures are eventually transmitted through global supply chains, potentially leading to higher international food prices.
This impact is particularly significant for Malaysia, which remains a net importer of several essential goods and commodities.
“Malaysia imports key food items such as rice, wheat, beef, vegetables, and dairy products. In 2024, Malaysia’s food trade deficit stood at RM39.34 billion,” he said.
While Malaysia is largely self-sufficient in poultry, Nasir pointed out a critical vulnerability: the industry relies almost 100 per cent on imported grain, corn, and soybeans for feed.
“Higher feed costs would directly affect the chicken industry, which is the primary source of protein for Malaysian households,” he said. He suggested that Malaysia must build a resilient food system by:
- Maintaining strategic reserves of staple foods like rice.
- Diversifying import sources to reduce dependence on a single region.
- Investing in precision farming and improved seed varieties.
In a related matter, Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) Chief Executive Officer Saravanan Thambirajah urged Malaysians to remain calm, stating there is no immediate indication of a shortage of essential goods.
“Malaysians should avoid panic buying. At this stage, there is no evidence that the country will face a shortage,” he said.
However, he recommended that households practice basic preparedness by keeping a modest reserve of non-perishables, such as rice and cooking oil, canned goods (sardines, tuna, and baked beans), dried foods (noodles or pasta) and powdered milk.
“Buying excessively or hoarding items could disrupt the market and create unnecessary shortages for others,” Saravanan warned.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali confirmed that the supply of essential goods remains sufficient, particularly ahead of the Aidilfitri festive season.
He added that the ministry is working with the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry to identify alternative supply sources should any exporting countries suspend shipments.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu added that while the direct impact on supply is expected to be limited—as most imports do not originate from the Middle East—the ministry is closely monitoring the potential rise in agricultural input costs driven by global oil prices.