Sabah has nine-month rice supply, minister assures amid shortage fears undercover officer.

KOTA KINABALU, March 15 — Sabah has enough rice supply to last up to nine months, the state’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister said today, reassuring the public following concerns about shortages in several districts.

Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said the state’s current rice stockpile is sufficient to meet public demand and urged consumers not to panic.

“If we include commercial stocks, inventories held by wholesalers, as well as the existing local rice supply, Sabah’s total rice stock can last for up to nine months,” he said in a statement.

His remarks followed complaints from consumers about limited rice availability in several districts, including Kota Kinabalu.

Jamawi said his ministry had sought clarification from Padiberas Nasional Berhad (Bernas), the national agency responsible for managing rice distribution in Sabah.

According to Bernas, the overall supply in the state remains adequate, and the shortages reported in some districts are only temporary.

“Rice supplies for the affected districts are currently being delivered by suppliers appointed by Bernas,” he said, adding that the government is closely monitoring the supply of essential food items.

He also said the ministry has taken proactive measures to boost local paddy and rice production by working with farmers in several cultivation areas.

“The state government, through my ministry, will continue efforts to increase paddy and rice production in Sabah to ensure the needs of the people are always met,” he said.

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

“Dependence on imports cannot be avoided, as this situation has existed for a long time. Nevertheless, the government will continue to ensure that rice supply in Sabah remains stable and sufficient,” he added.