THE Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry is always monitoring fuel prices, including that of diesel, to ensure any price hike will not affect the local food sector, especially fisheries.

Agriculture and Food Industries Minister Ronald Kiandee said the government has been subsidising the fuel used by Classes A, B and C fishermen since 2006.

Fish supply is currently sufficient though it depends on the weather, he added.

On the uncertain prices of seafood, Kiandee said this is normal as prices depend on demand and supply.

“Sometimes, there is an oversupply of fish; other times, there is a slight shortage. And this results in price fluctuations.”

This come after Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority chairman Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal said fish supply is still not stable due to uncertain weather conditions.

The chairman said the weather would usually return to normal in May, but remains uncertain even now, resulting in less fish landings. – Bernama, June 23, 2022.