The Special Integrated Task Force on White Rice Operations Enforcement (OP BPT) has announced a significant extension of its operations, pushing the deadline to November 17. The decision comes in response to the persistent issue of subsidised imported white rice (BPI) being illicitly smuggled into neighboring countries, with a particular focus on Sabah and Sarawak.
The announcement was made by Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin following the weekly meeting of the OP BPT, held at Menara Lembaga Pertubuhan Peladang (Farmers’ Organisation Authority-LPP).
Chan, who serves as the chairman of OP BPT, explained, "By extending this period, there will be integrated enforcement at the Sabah and Sarawak borders to prevent subsidy leakage and wastage of national funds."
This operation has gained critical importance in light of the challenges presented by illicit rice smuggling, which jeopardizes the nation's food security and erodes valuable subsidies intended for the welfare of Malaysians.
In the interim, enforcement agencies have ramped up their efforts. They have conducted a total of 196 inspections involving 71 factories, 113 wholesalers, and 12 retailers in Peninsular Malaysia, as of November 1. As a result of these investigations, three cases under the Control of Padi and Rice Act 1994 (Act 522) and nine cases under the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) are currently under scrutiny.
Authorities are determined to take stern measures against any individuals or entities involved in deceptive practices, including altering packaging or mixing local white rice (BPT) with BPI, smuggling BPI abroad, or hoarding supplies of BPT. Such actions not only undermine the government's efforts to provide affordable rice but also pose a significant threat to the country's economic stability and the well-being of its citizens.
As part of the initiative to combat rice-related issues, the public is strongly encouraged to come forward with complaints or information. A dedicated complaint hotline has been set up at 03-8870 2393/2207 to facilitate this process.
The extended OP BPT operation underscores the government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the integrity of rice subsidies, ensuring food security, and promoting the welfare of Malaysians. In these challenging times, it is essential to address rice-related issues with determination and vigilance, and the extension of OP BPT demonstrates the government's resolute stance on these matters.
The Ministry is committed to keeping the public informed about the progress of these operations and the measures taken to tackle the issues at hand. Through collaborative efforts and public engagement, Malaysia aims to overcome the challenges posed by rice smuggling and ensure the steady supply of affordable rice to its citizens.
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