However, some farms had a problem of underweight chicken, which had affected supplies in some areas, it said.

The ministry said the inspections were carried out following a report that a group of chicken cartels had taken action to stop farm operations, thus causing a shortage of chicken supply in the market, Bernama reported.

Describing the report as inaccurate, the ministry said the poultry farm companies had given the assurance that their farms would continue to supply the local market with chicken, either in super and standard sizes or as cut pieces.

“However, we do not deny that some chicken farms face the problem of reduced weight gain in chickens. This is due to the quality of chicken feed, diseases and extreme hot weather conditions, especially in the open coops.

“All these have affected the supply of chicken in certain areas,” the ministry said.

The ministry said it was speeding up the evaluation process for applications for subsidies. Farmers who meet the conditions would be able to receive their claims within the promised period.

“The ministry will continue to hold meetings and engage with all parties directly involved in the chicken supply chain to ensure continuity of supplies,” the ministry said.