Poultry shortage not due to temporary closure of farms - Mafi

 

The Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry (Mafi) has denied allegations that the temporary closure of certain poultry farms over the weekend has led to a shortage in chicken supply in the market.

This follows a recent news report on the closure of poultry industry cartels from May 21 to May 22 and poultry sellers contemplating a strike due to the government's alleged delay in subsidy payment.

In a statement today, the ministry claimed that an inspection by the Veterinary Services Department had found the report to be inaccurate.

"The poultry farming companies involved have given their assurance that their farms will continue to supply chicken for the needs of the local market, especially processed chicken in the form of round chicken, 'super' chicken, standard chicken and chicken cuts.

"Inspections by the Veterinary Services Department also found that most poultry farms were ready to supply chickens," said the ministry today.

However, they noted that it was 'undeniable' that some farms face the issue of smaller sized chickens.

According to the ministry, this was due to various factors such as the country's heatwave, quality feed supply disruption and disease.

The ministry argued that this has interfered with the raising of chickens, especially for those utilising open coop systems and the supply of chickens in certain areas.

Further, the ministry clarified that the evaluation process for providing chicken subsidies to farmers who have submitted applications is currently being expedited.

"Breeders who qualify and obtain payment approval will obtain their claims within the promised period," said the ministry.

The ministry added that it would also hold meetings and engage with those directly involved in the chicken supply chain to ensure the continued supply of poultry.

Recent concerns over the nation's food security have resulted in calls towards Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's administration by the various parties, including Ipoh Barat MP M Kulasegaran, to reveal its plan to guarantee food security in the country. - Mkini