Clips emerge online of people swarming supermarkets after Malaysia's lockdown announcement

As we’ve learned over the past couple of weeks, kiasu-ism is universal. Since the coronavirus became a global pandemic, folks outside Asia have raided supermarkets and stores as well — but instead of seizing instant noodles en masse, it is pasta that is being hoarded. 

But even as local politicians call for calm and the internet pokes fun at panic-shopping, hoarders are gonna hoard. Especially after the levels of paranoia went up a few notches late last night after Malaysia announced a drastic nationwide lockdown for two weeks that prohibits citizens from travelling overseas. 

The consternation set in pretty quickly on both sides of the border. Supermarkets and hypermarkets in Malaysia saw long snaking lines of customers who’ve filled up their trolleys with various groceries and household items, prepping themselves for a long stay at home. 

This, despite the fact that shops selling food and daily necessities will remain open during the lockdown. 

Even though we’re not under lockdown, Singaporeans have started to fall for their panic-hoarding tendencies again. Following Malaysia’s announcement last night, social media was replete with images and video clips of supermarkets abuzz with activity and people — an odd sight for a Monday night. 

深夜12時なのに買い占めが始まった…
マレーシア封鎖のためかもしれない
Panic buying has started even though it's midnight... Probably related to the Malaysia lockdown...? pic.twitter.com/QI5VkAymS9

— Cinogard / シノガード (@Cinogard_DS) March 16, 2020

Following Malaysia’s announcement of a lockdown starting Wed due to the #covid19 outbreak, those in neigbouring Singapore are worried if this would mean a disruption of food supplies. Some are showing this fear by hoarding essential supplies — again. (Photo taken at 11.15pm) pic.twitter.com/g5BGozo5O1

— Dewey Sim 沈炜淳 (@deweysim) March 16, 2020

Speaker of Parliament and Twitter celebrity Tan Chuan-Jin had to see it for himself. The man dropped by an NTUC FairPrice supermarket in Kembangan and FairPrice Xtra at NEX shopping mall in Serangoon, where he found out that things are busier than usual, but at least manageable. 

Minister of Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing has assured the public that Singapore still has months worth of stockpiles and are more than ready for disruption of supplies from Malaysia. 

“Although we are not facing any shortages, I urge everyone to continue to purchase in a responsible manner and to purchase only what you need,” he wrote on Facebook following Malaysia’s announcement. 

“Otherwise, no amount of stockpiling will be sufficient.”

ilyas@asiaone.com