Hi! It is going to be my first time to make MMF. However shortening is not locally available here in my area. would it be okay to just substitute butter instead of shortening? would there be any other alternatives? thanks so much!!!

I don't think butter is the best subsitute. I always use coconut fat but it should work with any flavourless vegetable oil I guess. Try that rather than butter. Start small and add more later if the MMF is dry.