WITH several countries in Europe, including the United Kingdom, recently advising its citizens to stockpile enough food to last three days, similar concern has arisen among Malaysians to also have a well-stocked larder.
The Federation of Malaysian Consumer Associations (Fomca), however, said consumers should maintain enough supplies for a 72-hour period as a precaution.
But is there any government directive to do so?
Verdict:
FALSE
The government has not issued any directive for the public to stock up on food supplies for a 72-hour period as recommended by Fomca, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.
The Agriculture and Food Security Minister advised consumers not to panic buy but to continue shopping according to their daily needs.
"We acknowledge that we are concerned about the current situation, including cyber threats, but we have not yet reached the stage of issuing directives for the public to stockpile food," he said at a press conference after officiating the Himpunan Semarak Tani Jualan Agro Madani in Bukit Katil here on Saturday (Nov 7), Bernama reported.
On Friday (Nov 6), Fomca advised consumers to stock up on food and basic necessities for at least 72 hours as a precautionary measure against potential supply disruptions caused by global geopolitical uncertainties and natural disasters.
Mohamad said the country's rice stocks were sufficient for six months and would continue to be increased.
"The supply of frozen fish is also guaranteed sufficient for the next eight months. So, there is no need for excessive purchases," he said.
"Buying goods in excessive quantities will only create problems and make it difficult for other consumers to obtain supplies," he added.
Mohamad said the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry was also constantly assessing the current situation, including through collaboration with universities and researchers such as climate change experts.
As an initial step, he said the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority, along with private traders with freezing facilities, had been asked to stock up, especially on types of fish that were in high demand among consumers.
