GEORGE TOWN: The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) has increased coconut supply by 30% to 40% to meet the high demand ahead of the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, says its director-general Abdul Rashid Bahari.
He said the move is part of its proactive measures to ensure sufficient supply for domestic use during the festive season.
“The (coconut) supply is becoming more stable and prices have dropped slightly by 5% to 10%. Although the reduction is not significant, the important thing is to ensure a stable supply.
“Despite the current global supply constraints, we can still secure enough supply to meet the needs for Hari Raya,” he said at the launch of the Agrofiesta Aidilfitri 2025 here, Bernama reported.
According to Abdul Rashid, the coconuts were obtained from Sabah and Sarawak as well as imported from Indonesia.
“There are two types of imports: one facilitated by Fama through its subsidiaries and existing import entrepreneurs.
“The other type involves manufacturers who process grated coconut, coconut powder and packed coconut.
“Although Indonesia and Malaysia have high demand for coconuts, thanks to the longstanding cooperation between the two countries and experienced importers, we can still secure a stable supply,” he said.
He said Fama is also offering special discounts for coconut milk and selling ingredients at lower prices at 42 special pre-Aidilfitri farmers’ markets starting March 29, which Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu will launch.
Meanwhile, Abdul Rashid said Fama is targeting RM1mil in sales during the ninth edition of Agrofiesta Aidilfitri 2025 from Feb 28 to March 30.
He said the Agrofiesta Aidilfitri, which is being held at two shopping malls in Penang, involves 40 local entrepreneurs and promotes food products, including traditional snacks, biscuits and essential items for Hari Raya.
Fama also presented the Agrobazaar K-Shoppe grants and Product Image and Packaging Improvement assistance totalling RM95,000 to 13 entrepreneurs at the event.
