Crop, Livestock Supply Stable Amid Hot, Dry Weather

SHAH ALAM, June 28 (Bernama) -- Crop and livestock supplies nationwide remain stable despite the ongoing hot and dry weather caused by the Southwest Monsoon, according to the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM).

Its Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the ministry has not received any major complaints or reports of serious supply disruptions.

There have been some complaints, but they are isolated and weather-related, whether due to floods or drought, he added.

“Overall, disruptions are minimal and the situation remains under control,” he told reporters after officiating the Agriculture Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) @KPKM carnival here today.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) earlier reported that the Southwest Monsoon, which began on May 10, is expected to last until September.

Separately, Mohamad said the coconut industry holds strong potential to become a key contributor to the national economy, similar to pineapples.

He noted rising demand for both mature coconuts, which are being actively cultivated in Sabah, and young coconuts, especially from China.

“The crop is expected to generate impressive export value, just like pineapples, which have surpassed RM1 billion in sales,” he said.

Mohamad had previously praised the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) for driving national production and export growth in the sector.

-- BERNAMA