PUTRAJAYA, June 22 — The two main sugar-producing companies in Malaysia, MSM Malaysia Holdings Bhd (MSM) and Central Sugars Refinery Sdn Bhd (CSR), have been instructed to provide daily sugar production reports since May to ensure there are no disruptions in the supply of the commodity in the country.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said instructions had been issued to the two companies to submit daily reports since May, after the sugar supply crisis in several states.
Speaking at a press conference after attending the monthly assembly of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) earlier today, he said it was among the measures to ensure sufficient sugar supply, especially ahead of next week’s Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration.
In addition, KPDN will monitor the supply of sugar in the market through checks with wholesalers and suppliers, as well as conducting surveys at retail stores and supermarkets.
“We will monitor seriously ahead of the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration to ensure that the supply (of sugar) is adequate,” Salahuddin said, adding the supply of sugar was also found to be stable after Ops Manis was launched last May.
Previously, the media had reported there was concern among the public, especially in Kelantan, following the difficulty in obtaining a supply of one-kilogramme sugar packets, which were allegedly not available in the market since April.
The minister added that enforcement has also been increased at the borders, to ensure there is no diversion of subsidised goods, including sugar, to neighbouring countries.
— Bernama
