Coconut Shortage Hits Penang Ahead of Thaipusam Festival
Financial Loss for Coconut Supplier
A coconut supplier in Penang is facing significant financial loss, amounting to tens of thousands of ringgit, due to an inability to meet demand for the upcoming Thaipusam festival.
Causes of Shortage
P. Sarasvathy, 66, who is the main supplier of coconuts for the festival in the state, attributes the shortage to the prolonged rainy season resulting in poor yield on three leased plantations in Perak – Bagan Datoh, Pantai Remis, and Kuala Bernam.
Impact on Hindu Devotees
She expressed frustration over the situation, noting that the shortfall is not only impacting her but also Hindu devotees who are struggling to find the commodity for the traditional ritual of breaking coconuts during Thaipusam, which is on Feb 11.
Consequences for Business
"I am not taking any orders at all this year. Many customers, including regulars, have called to place orders, but I had to turn them down," she said at her premises in Lorong Abu Siti.
First-Time Dilemma
Sarasvathy, who has been in the coconut supply business for over 40 years alongside her husband, A. Anbarasan, 71, noted that this is the first time they have encountered such a dilemma.
Current Situation
Typically, two weeks before Thaipusam, her six employees would be fully engaged in preparing orders. However, this year, the situation is drastically different. The mother of three said the issue first became apparent in May of last year when she observed a significant decline in coconut production leading to the current shortage.
Limited Supply
As a result, she explained that the available supply is now limited to covering the daily needs of the coconut milk shops she operates in Jelutong and Taiping, Perak, as well as several other regular customers on the island.
Supplying the Temple
Sarasvathy will be supplying 18,000 coconuts to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthabani Temple on Jalan Kebun Bunga, as she is the primary supplier for the temple for Thaipusam.
CAP’s Concerns
Meanwhile, Penang Consumers Association (CAP) education officer N.V. Subbarow said that his recent survey revealed a widespread shortage of coconuts, leading to a sharp rise in prices.
Government Intervention
Subbarow called on the government to regulate prices, particularly during Thaipusam, when demand surges. He also advised Hindu devotees to reduce the number of coconuts used in the traditional ritual to prevent waste.
Conclusion
The coconut shortage in Penang has caused significant financial loss for a local supplier and has also impacted Hindu devotees who are struggling to find the commodity for the traditional ritual of breaking coconuts during Thaipusam.
FAQs
Q: What is the cause of the coconut shortage?
A: The prolonged rainy season has resulted in poor yield on three leased plantations in Perak.
Q: How will this impact Hindu devotees?
A: Hindu devotees who are struggling to find coconuts for the traditional ritual of breaking coconuts during Thaipusam.
Q: What is the current price of coconuts?
A: Local coconuts are priced at RM3.90 each, up from RM1.90 in 2024, while imported ones from Indonesia are selling for RM3.
Q: What is the solution to the shortage?
A: The government is urged to regulate prices, and Hindu devotees are advised to reduce the number of coconuts used in the traditional ritual to prevent waste.