Over 33 Countries Are Asking Their Citizens To Stockpile Food. Here’s Anwar’s Response
The prime minister acknowledged that some countries had convened emergency meetings to address the situation.
Cover image via Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the public to remain calm amid reports that more than 33 countries have advised their citizens to stockpile food and other essentials
According to the New Straits Times, Anwar said the government has decided to openly inform the public about rising geopolitical tensions and global cyberattack threats rather than risk causing unnecessary panic.
"Some countries have seen growing anxiety among their residents, with some beginning to stockpile or purchase food supplies.
"Therefore, we believe it is better to make this known and disclose it in the Dewan Rakyat so that the people are informed.
"Do not panic.
"All government departments and agencies are working daily to ensure that supplies of medicines, food and other essential items are sufficient.
"Importantly, cybersecurity, digital matters and technology-related issues are also being monitored," Anwar said in the Dewan Rakyat today, 3 October.
He acknowledged that some countries had convened emergency meetings to address the situation. However, Malaysia had not reached that stage following discussions held yesterday, 2 November.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Malaysia has sufficient food supplies to last at least six months
Zahid made the remarks when asked about the 33 countries that had issued advisories urging their citizens to stockpile food, water, and other essentials in preparation for emergencies, reported NST.
"We do not see the need for such measures as food availability and storage levels are sufficient.
"We have enough food supplies to last at least six months," said Zahid, who is also National Disaster Management Committee chairperson.
Countries including Japan, the UK, France, and India have advised their citizens to stockpile food, with recommendations varying from country to country
The Guardian reported the British government has advised households to stock up to nine litres of bottled water and three days' worth of food. France has also issued a similar advisory.
Meanwhile, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and the Netherlands have recommended keeping at least three days' worth of food, reported The Vibes.
Sweden and Norway have encouraged households to prepare enough supplies to last up to a week.
Germany recommends keeping essential supplies for up to 10 days, while the US advised residents to have several days' worth of food, water, and other emergency necessities.
According to The Japan News, Japanese Disaster Management Minister Goshi Hosono has urged the public to have at least three days, or preferably one week, worth of stockpiled food and water.
He also encouraged the citizens to earthquake-proof their homes, secure furniture, and familiarise themselves with nearby evacuation sites and routes.
