VOICES
ANIMAL HEALTH
Experts Warn Of Food Price Hikes In Malaysia From Fertiliser Cost Surge
Fertiliser shocks from the Iran war may push up prices of vegetables, rice, chicken and eggs in Malaysia, as well as flour-based foods. Experts warn that lower yields, higher feed/fuel costs, and import reliance may worsen inflation if disruptions persist.
Forward Buying, Strong Feed Supply Buffer Malaysia’s Food Costs For Now: Importer
Malaysian livestock producers have secured feed supply months in advance, while global corn and soybean stocks remain high, limiting immediate cost pressures despite rising diesel prices, says a commodities importer.
MALAYSIA
After Meeting Philip Morris, FT Mufti Office Explores Fatwa For Shariah-Compliant Tobacco Alternatives
The FT Mufti's Office says it's looking at the role of productive fatwas for "Shariah-compliant" alternatives to conventional cigarettes, after receiving a visit from Philip Morris Malaysia. Currently, smoking (including e-cigarettes) is considered haram.
SSB Tax Fails To Cut Sugary Drinks Consumption: ISIS Malaysia
ISIS Malaysia says the SSB tax, a volumetric tax system, is largely ineffective in reducing sugary drinks consumption, with a 10% increase in SSB tax reducing purchases by only less than 2%. ISIS also recommends expanding the SSB tax to condensed milk.
WORLD
Undermining India’s Primary Health Care Missions
Instead of a thrust on key areas such as women and children’s health, the government has chosen to expand tertiary health care.
Foodborne Disease Costs Singapore $80m Annually: Study
A new study has found that foodborne disease (FBD) costs Singapore SG$80m annually in economic burden (direct and indirect costs). Non-typhoidal Salmonella contributed the highest cost from known pathogens at SG$8m. Unspecified gastroenteritis cost SG$65m.
