Mohd Nazri (right) with Dr Salleh (left) and Mohd Razali at the Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house event in Taman Kingfisher.
KOTA KINABALU (April 14): The Sabah Farmers’ Organisation (PPNS) has welcomed the state government’s move to increase the rice supply quota to 35,000 metric tonnes this month, describing it as a swift and appropriate step to stabilise the market in Sabah.
Its chairman Datuk Mohd Nazri Abdullah said the announcement by Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar demonstrates the government’s seriousness in addressing public concerns following panic buying and supply disruptions in several areas.
He said the increase in supply would not only ease consumer anxiety but also ensure that the people’s basic food needs remain a top priority.
“This move is highly welcomed as rice is a staple for every household. With increased supply and improved distribution, the public need not worry or rush into excessive purchases.
“In the current situation, consumer calm is crucial to ensure the market stabilises and that supply is distributed fairly across all areas,” he said when met at his Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house in Taman Kingfisher on Monday.
Among those present were former Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin, former Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Salleh Said Keruak, Sabah Federal Secretary Datuk Mohd Razali Wahab, Deputy Sabah State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Al-Hambra Tun Juhar, Bongawan assemblyman Dr Daud Yusof, Tenom MP Riduan Rubin, Political Secretary to the Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Datuk Ghazali Hajiji, Sabah National Registration Department director Farid H Askali Ibrahim, Sabah Farmers’ Organisation Board director Fitrisubroto Yahmin, as well as farmer leaders and heads of state and federal departments.
Mohd Nazri also supported the government’s move to tighten audits on wholesalers suspected of hoarding, delaying stock releases or attempting to exploit government subsidies.
He stressed that any elements of sabotage or supply manipulation must not be tolerated as they directly impact the cost of living, particularly for low-income groups and rural communities.
“If there are parties deliberately withholding stock to drive up prices, firm action must be taken.
“Food supply is not a trivial issue as it affects the welfare of the people and the stability of the state,” he said.
At the same time, he advised the public to purchase according to their needs, avoid panic buying and cooperate with authorities by providing information if there are cases of overpricing or suspicious shortages.
“The public should spend prudently and avoid spreading rumours that may cause unnecessary concern.
“The government has assured that stocks are sufficient, so consumers should remain confident and calm,” he said.