MAFFI SABAH: RICE SUPPLY SUFFICIENT FOR UP TO NINE MONTHS, 2,000HA PADI PLAN UNDERWAY

KOTA KINABALU, March 15 (Bernama) -- The Sabah Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry (MAFFI) has assured that rice supply in the state remains sufficient and at a safe level despite recent reports of shortages in several districts.

Its Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said current rice stockpiles in Sabah are sufficient to meet the needs of the population for up to nine months.

In a statement today, he said the estimate includes trade stocks, wholesalers’ stocks and locally produced rice available in the state.

Jamawi said the ministry had contacted Bernas Sabah, which manages and distributes rice supply in the state, to obtain clarification on the situation.

According to him, Bernas confirmed that the overall rice supply in Sabah remains sufficient and the shortages reported in certain districts are only temporary.

He said rice supplies for districts experiencing shortages are currently being delivered by suppliers appointed by Bernas and urged the public not to panic, as the government continuously monitors the supply of essential food items in Sabah.

Meanwhile, Jamawi said the state government has received an allocation guarantee from the Ministry of Economy to develop an additional 2,000 hectares of idle padi fields in the state.

He said the new areas identified for development include Kota Belud, Terusan Sapi, Telupid, Tambunan, Keningau and Tenom, aimed at increasing Sabah’s rice self-sufficiency level in the future.

Monitoring has been carried out with relevant officers to assess padi fields and irrigation systems suitable for the development of padi granary areas.

Jamawi said engagement sessions were also held in February at the Terusan Sapi padi granary area and with relevant parties in Kota Belud to identify issues affecting padi production.

However, he acknowledged that Sabah still relies on imported rice to meet current demand.

“Dependence on imports is unavoidable as this situation has persisted for a long time, but the government will continue to ensure rice supply in Sabah remains stable and sufficient for the people,” he said.

-- BERNAMA