[UPDATED] Egg supply issue: interim foreign sources identified, says Mat Sabu

KUALA LUMPUR – Several foreign sources have been identified to temporarily alleviate the supply of chicken eggs in Malaysia, said the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.

This was announced in a statement today by its minister Mohamad Sabu, who added that his ministry will ensure that the imported eggs are free from diseases and meet the regulatory standards.

“The ministry recognises the necessity of eggs, which are a popular daily source of protein among Malaysians, with an average consumption rate of 968 million eggs per month. 

“The initiative to import eggs is not to pressure local producers, but is instead meant to ensure that the supply in the country is not disrupted and that the people’s welfare is taken care of.”

He added that the ministry’s secretary-general has been ordered to study the impact of importing eggs on the local egg production industry, while Agrobank will be presenting its suggestions to aid suppliers and small entrepreneurs in the industry to remain competitive. 

Noting that the necessity of importing eggs will be reviewed once the supply of the basic goods has stabilised, he said the ministry is confident that the current egg shortage can be resolved soon with the cooperation of various parties. 

Last week, it was reported that the supply shortage of eggs continued across the country, with some retailers imposing a limit on the sale of eggs and some were accused of overcharging.

Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim chaired the 2022 National Action Council on Cost of Living special meeting, which was attended by government departments and agencies to discuss the cost-of-living issues affecting the people. – The Vibes, December 6, 2022