ALOR GAJAH – About 60% of the 350 farmers’ markets nationwide are expected to open in stages by the end of this year after adapting to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the operation of controlled fresh markets in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) director-general Datuk Zainal Abidin Yang Razalli said the opening of farmers’ markets was in line with the flexibility given by the National Security Council.
He said SOPs would be strictly observed continuously in all farmers’ markets nationwide.
“Farmers’ markets in states that have entered Phase 2 of the National Recovery Plan have opened, but will not operate as they used to because we are now adopting the concept of controlled fresh markets, with strict SOPs such as wearing face masks, temperature checks, and exit and entry points,” he said.
He spoke to reporters after handing over assistance from the Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry to the management of Madrasah Tahfiz al-Quran Ar Rashidin here today.
Also present were Rembia rep and state Tourism, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Muhammad Jailani Khamis, and Melaka Fama director Hairudin Yunos.
At the programme, 350kg of vegetables, fruits, and food industry products were presented to 60 recipients at the madrasah.
Commenting further, Zainal said a total of 54 permanent and semi-permanent outlets had been opened since the government imposed movement restrictions.
From June 1 to yesterday, he said, controlled fresh markets nationwide recorded RM118 million in sales. – Bernama, August 29, 2021
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