Food security is a national issue says Johor MB


JOHOR BARU: Food security is no longer a state issue, it has become a national issue that needs to be addressed immediately by all stakeholders, says Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

The Johor Mentri Besar said this would ensure that the people do not continue to be burdened with disruptions to the food supply.

“Lack of local rice supply and increase in the price of imported rice have greatly affected the people who have to face the rising cost of living.

“With the uncertain weather because of climate change, immediate action needs to be taken,” he said in a Facebook post here on Friday (Sept 29).

Onn Hafiz, who is the Machap assemblyman, added that he visited several locations and observed that there has been a shortage of some basic food items such as local rice, eggs and subsidised cooking oil.

He said his administration is taking the matter seriously and he has requested the state agriculture, agro based industry and rural development committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip and state investment, trade and consumer affairs committee chairman Lee Ting Han together with related agencies such as Fama, to review the short, medium and long term plans to meet the people’s needs.

He added that Johor has several suggestions for the federal government to consider in addressing the issue of rice supply in the country.

“Among the suggestions is creating import rice subsidies until the issue of local rice supply is sufficient. The repackaging of rice into small packs such as 1kg or 2kg so that it is easier and cheaper to buy by the people.

“Johor is offering our land to be considered for rice planting activities and the federal government should consider importing rice from other countries such as Indonesia, which is cheaper,” he added.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Nation

Arraignment of Syrian national in British passport forgery case postponed
Natural Resources Ministry reaffirms goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050
Cops to seek AGC's advice in completing probe of Teoh Beng Hock's death, says IGP
Sabah's location makes it ideal choice for China investors, says Deputy CM
Dewan Rakyat: Nine ministries complete winding-up of Supply Bill 2025 debate at committee stage
Civil Defence Force Melaka prepares for Northeast Monsoon with boat handling exercise
Public urged to use public transport for two years of Madani govt programme at KLCC
Cops to work with Myanmar and int'l agencies to verify claims of Jho Low's whereabouts
Sarawak to host 15th World Congress on Design and Health in 2026
Perikatan willing to resume MOU talks if terms are fair, says Hamzah

Others Also Read