KLANG: Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu has assured Malaysians of sufficient food supply for the festive season.
"I want to clearly guarantee that the country's food supply is sufficient throughout this festive season until May," the Agriculture and Food Security Minister said in his Hari Raya Aidilfitri message on Friday (March 20).
Mohamad said the adverse effects of the current conflict in West Asia had started to impact the world with the price of oil and gas, logistics services, fertilisers and world food commodities on the rise.
"What is happening thousands of kilometres away can be felt in the kitchens of Malaysians," he added.
According to Mohamad, the pressure on world food prices may go on for a prolonged period as many experts believed the conflict will take time to resolve.
"Therefore prices and supply situations can change at any time," he added.
However, Mohamad said his ministry and the relevant agencies were monitoring stocks, prices and the supply chain every day.
"If there are signs of disruption, we will not wait long and the government is ready to initiate necessary intervention measures," he said.
He added the government's main priority was to ensure food supplies were always available and accessible to the people.
He also advised people against panic buying as well as not to buy too much in the event of rumours about possible food shortage.
Mohamad said people must buy according to their needs as well as spend wisely and avoid wastage.
"Also support local products," said the minister.
He said Aidilfitri teaches moderation, discipline and togetherness, hence, with efficient and strategic management and a mature and calm people, Malaysia's food security will be stable.
"Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, maaf zahir dan batin," said Mohamad, ending his festive greeting.
