20-9-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) As the monsoon transition phase settles in, bringing wet weather, concerns are rising about the impact on vegetable harvests in Malaysia. Experts anticipate the possibility of higher vegetable prices in the coming months due to the extended wet spell.
Lee Kha Shiuann, President of the Federation of Vegetables Sellers Associations, expressed concern about the likely price hikes in vegetables, particularly leafy greens like spinach and mustard leaves. Regions such as Cameron Highlands are also expected to witness adverse effects on crops like tomatoes, Japanese cucumbers, and sawi (choy sum) due to heavy rains.
According to Lee, some areas have already experienced rain, leading to a slight supply shortage. This shortage has resulted in a notable increase in wholesale tomato prices, doubling from RM3 per kilogram (approximately S$0.87 per kilogram) to between RM6 and RM6.50. Although there is currently no severe shortage, prices have risen by around 20% for most vegetables compared to the previous two weeks.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department previously indicated that the monsoon transition phase would bring light winds from various directions, creating conditions conducive to thunderstorms with heavy rain and strong winds for short durations. This phenomenon primarily occurs in the late afternoon and early evening in multiple regions across Malaysia, particularly the west coast, inland areas of the peninsula, western Sabah, and the western and central parts of Sarawak. Such weather conditions can lead to flash floods.
A check at the Taman Tun Sardon market on Penang island revealed slight price increases, particularly for vegetables like spinach and torch ginger. Trader Ramli Yusof reported that a kilogram of spinach had risen to RM6.10 from RM5, while torch ginger now costs RM2 per piece, compared to RM1.50 previously. Ramli mentioned that the recent price hike was due to a decrease in stock from a farm in Ayer Itam, influenced by the adverse weather conditions.
On the other hand, trader K. Segar stated that 60% of his vegetables come from Cameron Highlands, where the weather has remained favorable. He noted that while Penang has experienced poor weather, it has not affected prices for locally sourced vegetables like spinach, long beans, ladies’ fingers, and red chillies. Segar emphasized that prices of leafy greens like spinach and mustard leaves tend to increase during the rainy season.
