Kuala lumpur: The country's staple food supply is currently stable and sufficient, with the rice buffer stock capable of meeting domestic demand for a period of six months. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir assured that the price of Local White Rice (BPT) will remain unchanged, with no anticipated price hikes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the government is prioritizing the stability of basic supplies amid global uncertainties, aiming to prevent undue financial burdens on the public. These priorities were highlighted by Akmal Nasrullah during a briefing on the global supply crisis. The National Economic Action Council (MTEN), chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has been actively discussing these matters to ensure economic stability.
In support of paddy farmers, the government has distributed RM45.98 million to 118,908 paddy farmers across Peninsular Malaysia. This initiative, known as the Paddy Farmers Plowing Incentive, aims to alleviate pressures resulting from climate change and increasing production costs. Akmal Nasrullah emphasized the importance of diversifying input sources and enhancing industry regulation to mitigate the risk of rising fertilizer prices, with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) leading these efforts.
Furthermore, the introduction of the Fertilizer Bill, expected to be tabled early next year, will focus on improving governance, quality, and market transparency in the agricultural sector. The bill is a part of the broader strategy to enhance the resilience of the agricultural input supply chain.
MTEN has also acknowledged potential risks from hot weather and fluctuating dam water levels. Akmal Nasrullah stated that intensified monitoring will be implemented to deploy mitigation actions promptly, ensuring production and supply continuity for consumers.
From the recent MTEN discussions, the government has outlined four key priorities: securing food, energy, and industrial input supplies through early monitoring and diversified sources, reducing structural costs while maintaining national revenue and consumer safety, expanding market access and attracting quality investments, and accelerating technological adoption and talent development to boost national competitiveness.
These measures collectively aim to fortify the country's economic stability and ensure a resilient supply chain, safeguarding both the agricultural sector and consumer interests.