KOTA KINABALU: Panic buying has disrupted rice supply in parts of Sabah, particularly in interior districts, sparking concern among residents.
The situation has been reported in areas such as Keningau and Tenom, where videos circulating over the past few days showed people stockpiling rice.
However, state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar has reassured the public that supplies remain sufficient and are expected to last at least until September.
“There is no need for panic buying. Please remain calm,” he said.
Jamawi said he had met Sabah Paddy and Rice Board general manager Datuk Dr Ramle Kasin, along with Sabah Bernas officials, to monitor supply levels at the Kolombong reserve centre.
“The supply of rice is stable and sufficient. We have also arranged for the immediate transportation of affordable rice in large quantities to Keningau, Sook, Tenom, Kemabong and Sipitang on Tuesday (March 17),” he said.
He added that supply levels are expected to normalise soon, urging the public not to resort to panic buying.
Meanwhile, the National Consumer Foundation Malaysia (YPNM) has called for urgent measures to address shortages of subsidised and affordable rice in several districts across Sabah.
Its Sabah chairman David Chan said the group had received numerous complaints, including from Kota Kinabalu, describing the situation as worrying and financially burdensome for households already coping with rising living costs.
On Monday (March 16), Sabah STAR president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan also said rice shortages were affecting Keningau and nearby areas, and urged the government to act swiftly.
