Selangor: Selangor is the first state in the country to have a food warehouse, or Selangor Food Warehouse (GMS), in its bid to strengthen the carbohydrate and protein supply security system, especially during unforeseen emergencies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the launch of the GMS, an effort of the Selangor Agricultural Development Corporation (PKPS), at the Tiong Nam Logistics Warehouse, will see it housing a total of 5,000 tonnes of rice and one million kilogrammes (kg) of frozen meat for a specified period. Amirudin assured that in the event of an emergency, major disaster, or pandemic that restricts movement, the food supplies can last at least three months, in addition to acting as a buffer for price stability. The stock will be stored for a specified period before being replaced, and the supplies will be sold through the Jualan Ehsan Rahmah (JER) and Ehsan Mart programmes at prices 15 to 20 per cent lower than market rates.
Amirudin emphasized that the implementation of the GMS is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to improve the food supply system and maintain affordable food prices, particularly for the needy. He highlighted that the GMS initiative serves as a strategic link in creating a sustainable and efficient food supply chain, aiming to set a model for other states in strengthening their food supply systems for the benefit of Malaysians.
The state government, through PKPS, currently rents part of the Tiong Nam Logistics Warehouse while awaiting the completion of its own warehouse in Kuala Selangor. Amirudin mentioned that a site has been identified for the new warehouse, and planning approval is awaited. The new food warehouse is expected to span 4.046 hectares (10 acres) and be completed within one and a half years in Kuala Selangor.
In his speech, PKPS Group chief executive officer Datuk Dr Mohamad Khairil Mohamad Razi stated that as a Selangor government agency responsible for the agriculture and agro-food sector, PKPS is ready to play a key role in strengthening the state’s food supply chain. The GMS is seen as a strategic initiative from the state government, addressing the needs of its people during crises such as natural disasters, epidemics, and disruptions in global food supplies. Over RM90 million has been allocated since 2022 for the implementation of the JER and GMS programmes, including contributions from the state government and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).