JOHOR BARU, March 6 -- Shoppers across Johor are struggling to find 1kg and 2kg bottles of locally produced cooking oil, as retailers report stock shortages that have persisted since the start of the year.

Checks at sundry shops and supermarkets in Larkin, Tampoi, Pasir Gudang, and Kulai found empty shelves, with retailers confirming that supply has been disrupted since January.

Wong Kok Wai, a second-generation sundry shop owner, said his stock of 1kg and 2kg cooking oil bottles has been low for months as suppliers have halted deliveries.

"A 1kg bottle of palm oil is priced at around RM6.90, while a 2kg bottle costs RM12.70. Right now, we only have alternatives like peanut, canola, corn, and sunflower oil, but those are nearly double ...