Selangor Takes a Step towards Strengthening Food Supply Security
Introduction
Selangor is the first state in the country to have a food warehouse, or Selangor Food Warehouse (GMS), in its bid to strengthen the carbohydrate and protein supply security system, especially during unforeseen emergencies.
Launch of GMS
The GMS, an effort of the Selangor Agricultural Development Corporation (PKPS), was launched at the Tiong Nam Logistics Warehouse in Port Klang, where it will house a total of 5,000 tonnes of rice and one million kilogrammes (kg) of frozen meat for a specified period. The plan is that if there is an emergency, major disaster or pandemic and movement is restricted, the food supplies can last at least three months, besides being a buffer for the price of goods.
Buffer for Price of Goods and Emergency Preparedness
The stock will not be kept forever, instead they will be stored for up to a specified period before being removed and replaced. The supplies will also be sold through the Jualan Ehsan Rahmah (JER) and Ehsan Mart programmes at 15 to 20 per cent lower than market prices.
Committed to Food Security
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said that the implementation of the GMS is part of the state government’s continuous efforts to improve the food supply system and keep food supply prices affordable, particularly for the needy. He emphasized that the state government is committed to becoming a leader in strengthening the country’s food security and hope that this initiative can be a model for other states in strengthening their food supply systems for the benefit of Malaysians.
Future Plans
The state government, through PKPS, currently rents part of the Tiong Nam Logistics Warehouse while awaiting the completion of its own warehouse in Kuala Selangor. They have identified a site for the new warehouse and are awaiting planning approval. The new warehouse is expected to be completed within one and a half years.
PKPS’s Role
As a Selangor government agency responsible for the agriculture and agro-food sector, PKPS will always be ready to play a key role in strengthening the state’s food supply chain. Mohamad Khairil Mohamad Razi, Group Chief Executive Officer of PKPS, emphasized that this GMS is the state government’s strategic initiative arising from its concern for the needs of its people, particularly in facing crises such as natural disasters, epidemics and disruptions in global food supplies.
Implementation and Allocation
Over RM90 million has been allocated since 2022 for the implementation of the JER and GMS programmes, including contributions from the state government and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the launch of the Selangor Food Warehouse (GMS) is a significant step towards strengthening the state’s food supply security and emergency preparedness. The initiative will provide a buffer for the price of goods and ensure food supply prices are affordable, particularly for the needy. The state government’s commitment to food security and its efforts to improve the food supply system will benefit not only the people of Selangor but also the country as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the Selangor Food Warehouse (GMS)?
A: The GMS is designed to strengthen the carbohydrate and protein supply security system, especially during unforeseen emergencies.
Q: What is the capacity of the GMS?
A: The GMS will house a total of 5,000 tonnes of rice and one million kilogrammes (kg) of frozen meat for a specified period.
Q: How long will the GMS be stored?
A: The stock will be stored for up to a specified period before being removed and replaced.
Q: What is the price of goods sold through JER and Ehsan Mart programmes?
A: The supplies will be sold at 15 to 20 per cent lower than market prices.