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THE MADANI Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring adequate supply of essential goods and stable fuel prices in Sabah and Sarawak, as global economic uncertainties continue to pose challenges.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Seri Mustapha Sakmud said efforts are focused on maintaining affordability and preventing sudden cost increases that could burden the public, particularly in East Malaysia.
“So, we hope it will get better, and we will not feel the effects of the (West Asia) war crisis. But at the same time, the Madani Government will try to ensure our basic needs are sufficient.
“And we are also maintaining prices, particularly petrol and diesel. Especially in Sabah, we are ensuring that the people are not burdened by the sudden increase in costs right now,” he said on Thursday.
He was speaking after attending a Raya Shirt Purchase Donation Programme for asnaf students organised by the Sepanggar Member of Parliament’s office at a clothing outlet in Alam Mesra.
Amid concerns over supply disruptions, Mustapha urged the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying, stressing that essential goods, including rice, remain adequately stocked.
“In terms of supply, we are actually sufficient. So, we hope the public won’t panic… the situation is still under control. So, we must plan, and what is important is that we spend wisely. That’s the only approach now… be thrifty,” he said.
The programme also saw the participation of 50 pupils from Sekolah Kebangsaan Gantisan and Sekolah Kebangsaan Pengiran Siti Hafsah in Karambunai, selected to receive festive assistance.
Mustapha said the initiative, now in its third year, rotates participating schools annually, with beneficiaries identified by school authorities, prioritising those from low-income households, including individuals registered under the e-Kasih system, orphans and students from underprivileged families.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to ease the cost of living and ensure that vulnerable groups are supported during the festive season. - March 20, 2026
