FAMA should actively resolve the ongoing coconut shortage

The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) urges the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) to overcome the coconut shortage issue. A recent market survey in Penang revealed that coconut milk and coconut traders were concerned about the reduced supply of coconuts, which has resulted in a sharp rise in prices.

Imported coconuts have seen a gradual price increase, now reaching RM4.00 each, while the shortage of local coconuts has worsened. This price hike has also led to an increase in the cost of coconut milk, which has risen from RM16.00 per kilogram.

Traders are predicting that the price of coconut milk will continue to increase, possibly reaching RM20.00 per kilogram by Ramadan, as the coconut supply continues to dwindle.

Despite CAP raising this issue in a press release in December 2024, followed by a statement from FAMA promising to import more coconuts from neighboring countries to ensure adequate domestic supply, the problem persists.

CAP calls on FAMA and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to resolve this recurring issue before Ramadan.

Mohideen Abdul Kader
President
Consumers Association of Penang

Press Statement, 19 February 2025