Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali admitted that fresh chicken prices in Sabah are significantly higher than in Peninsular Malaysia, describing it as a long-standing issue requiring sustainable solutions.

Armizan’s remarks follow Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin’s of the exorbitant difference in the price of chicken in Sabah and the peninsula, with the prices range  from RM12 to RM16.50 per kilogram in the region, compared to RM7 to RM9 in the peninsula.

“We are not denying this issue exists. It’s a problem that has been around for years,” he was quoted in the Daily Express.

The ministry is working with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) on a Price Stabilisation Study for Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, which includes fresh chicken prices. 

Findings from the study are expected this month.

Armizan urged political leaders to report price-related concerns directly to the ministry, promising swift investigations. 

“If there is profiteering, we will act immediately,” he said.

He added that tackling the issue requires cooperation with other ministries, including Agriculture and Food Security, to stabilise food supplies.

“The government has taken steps, including subsidising imported white rice and maintaining diesel subsidies, but we need long-term solutions for fresh chicken prices,” he said. – January 21, 2025.