KUALA LUMPUR, November 17 – Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, has pledged decisive action against individuals found hoarding rice seeds in Malaysia. Speaking in Parliament, the minister assured immediate measures against those engaging in such practices. He disclosed that arrests have already been made in connection with rice hoarding at 20 different locations.
Responding to concerns raised by Bersatu’s Bukit Gantang MP, Datuk Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal, regarding complaints from rice farmers about seed shortages and potential profiteering, Minister Mohamad emphasized the importance of cooperation and warned against hoarding, stating, “there should not be any hoarding.” The minister’s statement comes amid growing worries of a potential shortage of local white rice in Malaysia in the next five months. Unpredictable weather patterns, attributed to climate change, have heightened concerns among farmers who have already adjusted their schedules to allow for more frequent harvesting.
Mohamad assured Parliament that the government is committed to taking necessary steps, including enforcement measures, to ensure rice is planted according to the established schedule. Addressing concerns about the price of rice, the minister encouraged a focus on planting before addressing pricing issues. As Malaysia grapples with potential challenges in the rice supply chain, the government’s commitment to taking swift action against hoarding aims to safeguard the country’s food security and support the agricultural community.
