According to Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, as of February 27, the national physical rice stock stands at 881,554 metric tonnes. This amount, inclusive of the rice buffer stock, is deemed sufficient to sustain the nation's consumption for approximately 4.41 months. The detailed breakdown reveals that the combined stock includes 591,554 metric tonnes of factory, wholesale, and retail rice, 32,627 metric tonnes of imported rice, 107,540 metric tonnes of paddy and local rice, and 290,000 metric tonnes of buffer stock.
Mohamad Sabu provided this information in response to a query by Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia’s (Bersatu) Gerik MP Fathul Huzir Ayob regarding the government's contingency plan to address potential rice shortages. Notably, Mohamad had previously assured the public in October of last year that there was an adequate rice supply to meet domestic demands for the subsequent four to five months.
The surge in the price of imported white rice on the global market has been attributed to India's decision to implement an export ban in July 2023. India, which accounted for over 40% of the world's rice exports last year, took this step, consequently affecting the global rice market. Mohamad highlighted that by October, a total of 19 countries had imposed restrictions on rice exports to prioritize the needs of their own populations.
In light of these developments, ensuring the stability of rice supply becomes crucial for the nation's food security. The government's vigilance in monitoring rice stocks and implementing necessary measures to address any potential shortfalls is paramount. Mohamad's statement underscores the importance of proactive measures and strategic planning to mitigate the impact of external factors on the country's food supply. It highlights the need for continued efforts in diversifying rice sources and enhancing domestic production capabilities to safeguard against future disruptions in the global rice market.
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