PRESS STATEMENT: Stop the Blame Game — Fix Sabah’s Rice Security Now, Says Wong
KOTA KINABALU, 20 March 2026 — Parti Warisan Vice President and former Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Junz Wong has urged both the Federal and Sabah State Governments to move beyond blame and take urgent, coordinated action to strengthen Sabah’s rice security.
He urged this in response to recent remarks by Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan, who highlighted that Keningau, Tambunan and Sook experienced rice shortages over the weekend, attributing the situation to Sabah’s dependence on a Federal-controlled food supply chain. Jeffrey further warned that the shortage reflects a lack of preparedness for global supply uncertainties.
While acknowledging concerns raised over funding constraints, Wong stressed that Sabah’s failure to meet its rice self-sufficiency targets cannot be reduced to a single issue.
“Pointing fingers alone will not put rice on the table. The reality is this — Sabah’s food security challenges stem from both structural weaknesses at the federal level and gaps in state-level execution,” he said.
Wong who is also Tanjung Aru Assemblyman noted that while federal underfunding, if proven, must be addressed seriously in line with Sabah’s rights under MA63, the State Government must also take ownership in planning, implementation, and prioritisation of agricultural development.
“If the Sabah Padi and Rice Board is ready but underfunded, then the Federal Government must explain the allocation gap. At the same time, the State Government must demonstrate clear strategy, urgency, and accountability in driving production on the ground,” he added.
He warned that continued dependence on a centrally controlled supply chain, coupled with low domestic production, leaves Sabah highly exposed to supply disruptions.
“What we are seeing today — shortages in districts like Keningau, Tambunan and Sook — is not just a funding issue. It is a systemic vulnerability that has been left unresolved for far too long,” he said.
Wong called for a joint Federal-State food security roadmap, with clear targets, transparent funding commitments, and accelerated investment in irrigation, infrastructure, and high-potential padi zones.
“Sabah does not lack potential — it lacks decisive execution and alignment between Putrajaya and the State.”
“Sabahans are not interested in who is at fault. They want assurance that food supply is stable, affordable, and secure,” he stressed.
Wong concluded that food security must be treated as a strategic priority, not a political talking point.
“This is about putting food on people’s tables. Both governments must act — and act decisively now.”
End
Press statement released by
YB Datuk Junz Wong
Parti Warisan Vice President cum Adun N.22 Tanjung Aru
Mobile: 017 8188801
