KUCHING: A supply of about 50,000 metric tonnes of rice from Padiberas Nasional Bhd (Bernas) which could last up to five months is sufficient for the needs of all Sarawakians.
This was assured by Sarawak Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) director Datuk Stanley Tan when contacted yesterday.
He said, “Information obtained from Bernas stated that the current rice supply in Bernas’ storage is at least 50,000 metric tonnes.
“This supply is sufficient for the needs of the people for five months. The average rice demand for Sarawakians is 300 metric tonnes a day or about 9,000 metric tonnes a month.”
Stanley added that Bernas’ stock of rice supplies is being stored at its three major warehouses in Kuching, Sibu and Bintulu.
The supplies will be imported directly from Vietnam and is shipped directly to the three warehouses.
He further noted that KPDNHEP enforcement officers have monitored the supplies throughout Sarawak and found that there was no shortage of rice supply and no complaints regarding the increase in rice prices.
When asked whether there are any cases of supplies hoarding or profiteering, Stanley mentioned that as of date, there are no such cases reported.
