Mat Sabu orders officers to plant own crops amid Mideast conflict

2026-03-13 - 09:14

Agriculture and food security minister Mohamad Sabu said those who live in landed homes can cultivate fast-growing crops like chilli, eggplant and chives. (Bernama pic) PETALING JAYA: Agriculture and food security minister Mohamad Sabu has ordered his ministry’s officers to plant their own crops in view of uncertainty arising from the Middle East conflict. He said the government encouraged members of the public living in landed homes to cultivate fast-growing crops in their compounds as an “additional step to increase domestic food supply”. He said produce like chilli, eggplant and chives were suitable for this purpose, Bernama reported. “As an early measure, I will instruct ministry officers who live on landed property to begin planting fast-yield crops such as chilli, eggplant, chives and others,” he was quoted as saying. Mohamad, also known as Mat Sabu, said there was no sign that the conflict involving Israel, US and Iran would end soon. He said the government would take early measures to bolster food security, including increasing the national stockpile of rice to last for up to nine months, a decision agreed by the Cabinet today. He said Malaysia had a sufficient supply of rice, while there was enough fresh produce like chicken, eggs, fish and meat to last until June. He urged the public to refrain from speculating about food supply or prices, saying Putrajaya is keeping a close eye on the situation and taking necessary intervention measures. “For now, the public can celebrate Aidilfitri as usual. The country’s food supply is sufficient and well-secured,” he said.