Malaysia's food stockpile sufficient, unlike some European countries, says Mohamad Sabu

SHAH ALAM – Malaysians need not worry about food shortages as the country's stockpile is sufficient to meet domestic needs for at least six months, says Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.

He said Malaysia had enough food reserves, particularly rice and was working to ensure supplies could be maintained beyond the current six-month period.

"Our food stockpile is enough, unlike European countries where people are taking to the streets and holding major demonstrations.

"For Malaysia, of course, we have enough stockpiles. Prices may adjust slightly, but food supplies are sufficient," he told Sinar Daily when met at the Karangkraf headquarters.

Mohamad said the government was in discussions with Padiberas Nasional Berhad (Bernas) to ensure the country's rice reserves remained adequate, as the company was responsible for maintaining the stockpile under its 10-year agreement with the government.

He said the current period was also the best time to secure rice imports before possible disruptions to international trade routes pushed up transportation costs.

"The best time to import rice from outside is now because we are not sure what will happen with the geopolitical situation.

"If the Strait of Hormuz continues to be closed, transportation costs may increase. We hope Bernas will take on this responsibility," he said.

He added that the government was confident of maintaining sufficient food supplies for at least another six months beyond the current stockpile period.

However, Mohamad warned that the anticipated El Nino phenomenon could affect domestic food production, particularly rice and vegetables, due to prolonged hot weather and rising temperatures.

He said the government would need to monitor the impact and consider appropriate measures to protect agricultural production.

Mohamad also urged Malaysians not to engage in panic buying, warning that purchasing more food than necessary could put unnecessary pressure on supplies.

"Do not panic buy. Buy one chicken for one day as usual. Do not buy five chickens at once because that will affect our stock," he said.

Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Malaysia had sufficient food supply capacity for at least six months and did not require emergency stockpiling measures despite concerns over possible disruptions to essential supplies.

He said the government remained committed to ensuring national food security and adequate supplies of essential goods for Malaysians and others residing in the country.

Zahid's remarks came amid reports that at least 33 countries had issued preparedness guidelines encouraging households to maintain emergency supplies of food, drinking water and other essentials.

According to international media reports, the advisories were prompted by various global threats, including armed conflicts, extreme weather, power outages and cyberattacks.

Among the countries stepping up preparedness campaigns were France and the United Kingdom, which had advised households to maintain at least 72 hours, or three days, of essential supplies.