GEORGE TOWN, February 4 — Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has urged Thaipusam devotees to limit the number of coconuts they break this year due to a severe shortage of mature coconuts. He emphasized the need for a practical approach, aligning with the Consumers’ Association of Penang’s call to conserve supply and prevent further price hikes.
The current shortage has led to local coconuts being sold at up to RM3.90 each, compared to RM2.50 previously. The crisis stems from a drastic 80-90% drop in coconut yield from plantations in Perak and Selangor, as reported by major supplier Anba Coconut Trading. Despite having healthy trees, the plantations are producing fewer flower buds, significantly affecting supply.
Chow made the statement after attending a Chinese New Year event where he commended the welfare group 88 Captains for their philanthropic contributions, including RM1 million in scholarships and RM500,000 worth of smart TV boards for Penang schools.
