Kuala lumpur: The public is advised not to panic as food supply in the country is guaranteed to be sufficient ahead of the Aidilfitri celebration despite the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu assured that the supply of basic food items including rice, chicken, vegetables, and fruits is sufficient at least until May or June this year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Sabu emphasized the importance of celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri with frugality as suggested by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He mentioned that the supply of essential food items such as rice, chicken, eggs, fish, beef, buffalo, fresh milk, vegetables, and fruits is adequate until the middle of the year, thus dispelling any public concerns about shortages.
Mohamad Sabu addressed this issue during a press conference following the Special Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister. In addition, he announced that the MADANI Agro Sales and Rahmah Sales initiatives would be enhanced to provide food supplies at reasonable prices to the people. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) plans to increase the availability of vegetables and fish in the market through the MADANI Community initiative, which is being implemented at 5,000 locations nationwide.
He further explained that if necessary, the ministry would continue efforts to boost food supply, particularly within communities, and address price increases for oil and diesel. The Ministry of Finance (MOF) is expected to provide guidance on these matters as needed.
Mohamad also noted that most of Malaysia's food imports are sourced from countries such as India, Pakistan, Brazil, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, and ASEAN, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. However, he acknowledged that prolonged issues in the Middle East could affect transportation and potentially lead to price changes. The KPKM would consult with the MOF for any required actions.
Previously, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim indicated that a Special Cabinet Meeting was convened to assess the nation's fiscal position and monitor developments in Iran amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. The crisis began on February 28 when the United States and Israel attacked Iran, prompting Iran to retaliate against US interests in the region. Iran now requires tankers using the Strait of Hormuz to obtain its approval, vowing to block US and allied tankers from passing through this critical energy route.