Khairy Jamaluddin, the health minister of Malaysia, said on 2 June that the export ban on chickens was “not an easy decision” for Malaysia, according to Bernama.
Speaking to the media, Khairy said that Malaysia values its bilateral relations with Singapore, and that he is hoping the ban is just a temporary measure until the supply and price situation in Malaysia stabilizes.
He added that Malaysia is in a very difficult situation due to supply chain issues brought on by feed and climate change issues, which resulted in a shortage in supply and high prices in Malaysia.
He added that Malaysia is well aware that they have a responsibility as exporters to their neighbours, including Singapore.
Working to resume exports
Khairy further added that the Malaysian authorities are working together very closely with poultry producers to increase output and that once these are achieved, they are hopeful that poultry exports can resume.
The Malaysian government said in a statement on 1 June that the export ban includes live poultry, whole carcasses, chilled and frozen meats, as well as chicken-based products such as nuggets, patties and sausages.
Met S’pore ministers
Khairy was in Singapore and met with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Thursday to review each other’s Covid strategies, as well as discuss developments in the healthcare sector.
They also touched on areas where both countries can strengthen their (our) bilateral cooperation, as well as work together so our economies can recover quickly.
He also met up with ministers such as Heng Swee Keat, Josephine Teo, Ong Ye Kung, Vivian Balakrishnan and Lawrence Wong while he was in Singapore.