Public Advised Against Panic Buying Ahead Of Northeast Monsoon

PUCHONG, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- The public has been advised against panic buying or excessively stockpiling food amid concerns over the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon (MTL), and instead to make preparations according to their respective needs. 

National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) director-general Datuk Meor Ismail Meor Akim said the spread of unverified information, particularly on social media, could trigger panic buying, potentially leading to other problems, including disruptions to the supply of goods. 

“I have seen posts on Facebook, where friends are suggesting to stock up on food. We should avoid such panic-buying messages.

“Sometimes, panic buying creates another problem, not a Northeast Monsoon disaster, but a shortage of goods instead. Just buy according to your needs,” he said after the media engagement session on the government’s preparedness for the MTL here today. 

Meor Ismail said the public should take basic precautionary measures, including keeping important documents and belongings in elevated places to prevent them from being damaged in the event of floods. 

He also advised families with elderly members, persons with disabilities (PwD) and pregnant women to plan their evacuation to safer locations in advance if their residential areas are at risk of flooding. 

He said the public should also stay informed of weather updates and forecasts from official sources and move to temporary relief centres immediately when instructed to do so. 

Meor Ismail said temporary relief centres have been prepared to ensure that the welfare of flood victims can be properly taken care of. 

At the same time, he reminded all parties, particularly social media influencers, against creating sensational content that could cause public anxiety to gain followers. 

“Do not spread sensational news, including influencers. In the past, we have had to arrest people who posted videos that could cause panic,” he said.

-- BERNAMA