00:00 Two analysts have called for Mohd Sabu to be replaced as the Agriculture and Food Security
00:07 Minister, citing concerns over his lack of knowledge and expertise amid talk of an impending
00:13 Cabinet reshuffle.
00:16 University Malaysia Sabah's Lee Kuok Tiong said Mohd was ill-equipped for the job when
00:21 he claimed that the price of rice in Malaysia was the cheapest in the region despite ongoing
00:26 concerns regarding food security and a rising cost of raw materials.
00:31 Mohd, commonly known as Mhd Sabu, arrived at his conclusion by comparing prices in Ringgit.
00:38 Lee said this demonstrated the Minister's failure to fully comprehend the situation
00:42 given that comparisons with foreign nations must take into account the strength of their
00:47 currency.
00:49 Lee also said Mohd appeared confused about the difference between the price of local
00:54 and imported rice when explaining that rice-producing countries like India have reduced their exports.
01:01 Council of Professors fellow Janeri Amir concurred with Lee's perspective that it is essential
01:07 for Ministers holding specific portfolios to possess the requisite expertise in order
01:12 to address any issues that may arise.
01:15 Separately, Janeri suggested that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim should consider appointing a
01:20 second Finance Minister to assist him in view of his extensive workload and responsibilities.
01:28 Janeri said former Second Finance Minister Johari Gani was the most suitable person to
01:33 assume the position given his prior experience.
01:37 (electronic music)
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