PAPAR: Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan will no longer face sugar shortages starting May 1, 2025, following the establishment of a stockpile for coarse white sugar.
Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, said the move aims to ensure steady supply, especially during festive seasons. The stockpile can support demand for up to six months during disruptions.
Currently, the regions rely fully on sugar shipments from Peninsular Malaysia, which take 5–7 days to arrive. Supply issues, like those seen between August and October 2023, were worsened by shipping delays and logistical challenges.
The proposal was approved by the Federal Cabinet on March 25.
Armizan made the announcement during the Papar Hari Raya Open House on Sunday, which was also attended by the Head of State Tun Musa Aman, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, and other dignitaries.
