KUALA LUMPUR: Local poultry operators have given their assurance and commitment to continue supplying chickens for the local market.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries (MAFI) in a statement today said the assurance was given during an engagement session between the minister Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee and 12 major players in the poultry industry and farmers' associations.

Among the attendees include Leong Hup Poultry Farm Sdn Bhd, HLRB Broiler Farm Sdn Bhd, PWF Corporation Bhd, the Federation of Livestock Farmers' Association of Malaysia (FLFAM) and Selangor State Poultry Breeders Association.

"MAFI takes note of all the issues raised during the session, including the increase in chicken production costs, the problem of chicken weight gain, diseases, weather conditions, and the Planning Permission (KM) processes, among others. 

"All these have affected the operations and chicken supply," it said.

Also discussed during the session were issues related to the provision of chicken subsidies through the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) to farmers.

"DVS will continue to simplify and expedite the process of claiming subsidies for poultry farmers to boost the activities of food producers towards increasing domestic production."

MAFI said before this, it had also simplified the application procedure to expedite the payment of subsidies to poultry farmers.

"Action is also being taken by mobilising more officers to the states to expedite the review of applications."

MAFI added through the Keluarga Malaysia Maximum Price Control Scheme (SHMKM) implemented on Feb 5, the standard chicken ceiling price was set at RM8.90 per kilogramme with a subsidy of RM729.43 million.

The subsidy was aimed to alleviate the burden on producers due to the rising costs.

However, only RM50 million in subsidy has been paid so far.

"As such, MAFI is urging all eligible breeders to submit their applications, so that claims can be channelled within the promised period."

MAFI added that it will continue to hold meetings and engagement sessions with industry players, which play an important role in ensuring the continuity of production remains guaranteed.

"At the same time, the government will not compromise and stern action will be taken against any parties that hide, store or try to sabotage the supply of chickens in the market that could affect the lives of the people.

"We take seriously any matter that threatens the country's food security and will continue to take appropriate action to ensure the country's food supply continues to remain secure for the well-being of the people."