Fruits and veggie production going up

Last year's production volume of vegetables stands at 1.163 million metric tonnes, says the Agriculture and Food Security. — THOMAS YONG/The Star

THE combined production of fruits and vegetables showcases an upward trend last year, exemplifying the country's food availability and sufficiency says Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Chan Foong Hin.

Chan says, however, it is important to note that the ministry's data also shows that the growth or yield is not uniform across all types of produce.

"Certain fruits and vegetables are seeing more substantial increases than others due to various factors such as weather, local and oversea demands."

Malaysia's food supply originates from both local cultivation and imports, he adds.

"This results in a stable and sufficient availability of food products.

"Currently, the market offers a diverse range of items to cater to consumer preferences with competitive prices."

Chan: 'Certain fruits and vegetables are seeing more substantial increases than others due to various factors such as weather, local and oversea demands.'

According to data provided by the ministry, the overall production of fruits last year is 1.827 million metric tonnes, with pineapples topping the list at 537,231 metric tonnes.

As for vegetables, last year's production volume stands at 1.163 million metric tonnes with tomatoes leading the yield at 194,305 metric tonnes.

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Meanwhile, when it comes to pricing, Chan says the rate for vegetables for example, fluctuates based on supply and demand.

"The ministry is responsible for ensuring a consistent and sustainable supply to the market.

"In cases of challenges like low vegetable prices, the ministry would take action through the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA).

"This involves purchasing excess vegetable yields from farmers at prices higher than the prevailing market rates, thereby reducing the financial strain on farmers."

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According to data provided by the ministry, pineapples now top the overall production of fruits last year. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star

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Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh had recently said that the general prices of vegetables have remained stable.

She urged consumers to refer to the ministry's price checker application Price Catcher to get the best deals.