Government Assures Stable Supply Of Essential Food Despite Global Crisis

KUALA LUMPUR, April 14 (Bernama) -- The government has assured that the supply of essential food items remains stable and is not expected to face disruptions in the near future despite the global energy crisis, said Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.

He said the country currently has surplus stocks for several key categories, including rice, chicken, eggs, vegetables, fish, milk and fruits, while selected local food prices remain relatively stable following continuous monitoring and existing control measures.

“The government’s focus is clear, which is to ensure the availability of essential supplies, manage consumption prudently, mitigate the impact of price increases within fiscal capacity, and at the same time build the nation’s economic resilience.

“We view this issue not merely as an oil-related matter, but as one involving the cost of living, supply chain resilience and national economic security,” he said in a briefing on the global energy crisis which was broadcasted on local television stations today.

However, he said the government projected feed prices to rise by about eight per cent, while fertiliser prices are expected to increase between 15 and 20 per cent, with 63 per cent of the country’s fertiliser requirements being imported.

Akmal Nasrullah said this projection signals cost pressures at the production level that could translate into higher consumer prices if not addressed early.

“However, the government acknowledges that pressures are rising at the production cost level. Key components such as diesel, fertiliser and animal feed account for about 40 per cent of agricultural production inputs,” he said.

He said the government is currently managing the crisis actively by examining both supply and consumption aspects simultaneously.

According to him, the government has initiated early measures, including ensuring close monitoring of essential supplies, maintaining support for critical transport and logistics sectors, and reviewing several additional measures to manage cost pressures.

-- BERNAMA