In Malaysia, floods have impacted 100 hectares of agricultural land across Johor, Melaka, Perak, Kelantan, and Terengganu, leading to a significant decrease in vegetable supply and a consequent price increase of 50-80%. The New Straits Times reports that this situation is further exacerbated by similar flood events in Thailand, affecting imports and worsening the supply shortage. Lim Ser Kwee, president of the Malaysian Federation of Vegetable Farmers Association, stated, "Farmers are now waiting for floodwaters to subside before replanting can begin."
Vegetable trader Wan Baharuddin Ahmad has observed a continuous rise in vegetable prices over the past two weeks, with essential vegetables like sawi, bayam, and kangkung now costing around USD1.78/kg, up from USD0.78/kg. Similarly, tomatoes and lady's fingers have seen price increases to USD1.78/kg and USD2.12/kg from USD0.89/kg and USD1.45/kg, respectively. Red peppers have also seen a notable price hike to USD4.90/kg from USD3.12/kg. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has warned of a potential second wave of floods, expected to start on 7 December, particularly affecting Pahang and Johor.
Source: Says