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KUNAK: Rice supply in the district has returned to normal after several days of shortage, with suppliers resuming deliveries of local and imported white rice to supermarkets and retail outlets on Thursday.

The shortage was triggered by the spread of false information on social media, including Facebook and WhatsApp, as well as concerns linked to the conflict in West Asia, leading some consumers to purchase between seven and 10 sacks beyond their immediate needs.

The panic buying also affected some nasi lemak traders here who had been unable to obtain rice supply since Sunday.

A Daily Express survey on Friday found two supermarkets in Kunak town drawing crowds of consumers seeking white rice, with outlets limiting sales to 20 kilogrammes or two 10kg packs per person, although fragrant rice remains available without purchase limits.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, said on Thursday the ministry had set a purchase limit of two sacks per individual following excessive buying despite sufficient supply, while Consumer Front of Sabah (CFOS) president Nordin Thani supported the measure to ensure fair access for all consumers.