No need for panic buying, food available at all times — assures PM

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People look at the empty shelves at a local supermarket in Singapore after panic buying swept through the city after the government raised the alert level. – AFP File Photo

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin yesterday assured the public that there is no need for panic buying as all food items would be available at all times.

He admitted that there was a certain degree of panic buying among the public amid the Covid-19 pandemic including in Malaysia right now.

“Tonight (last night), we will also address this matter but to be truthful, do not worry so much. There is enough food to go around,” he told reporters after chairing the first Economic Action Council meeting here yesterday.

“We have instructed the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to ensure essential food items are made available,” he said.

The prime minister added that the Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry had been asked to monitor the situation on the ground.

“As of today (yesterday), the ministry has not indicated that food is running out. We will also ensure that people have access to all the essentials like vegetables, fruits and fish at the outlets which will stay open.

“This is important to make sure you do not feel something is missing and start rushing to buy and stock up unnecessarily.” — Bernama