In a recent address at the Finance Ministry's assembly, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the need for more frequent monitoring and enforcement to address the shortage of local white rice (BPT) in the market. He highlighted that effective distribution processes are crucial to ensure adequate availability of BPT for consumers.
Anwar acknowledged the concerns raised by traders regarding the shortage of BPT, emphasizing the government's commitment to addressing the issue. He noted that the recent special meeting of the National Action Council on Cost of Living (Naccol) had led to a decrease in the market price of imported white rice, reflecting the government's firm stance on stabilizing rice prices and supplies.
Regarding the distribution of BPT, Anwar revealed that the country currently has 150,000 tonnes of local white rice available for distribution, which is insufficient to meet the demand. He mentioned that BPT is currently sold and distributed by the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority and the Farmers Organisations Authority at RM26 per 10kg pack.
Anwar also highlighted the affordability of essential commodities in Malaysia compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, stating that Malaysian rice, sugar, and crude oil prices are among the cheapest in the region.
In a bid to alleviate the burden on consumers, the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry announced a reduction in the retail price of imported white rice by between RM2 and RM3, effective from a specified date. This move is part of the government's efforts to ensure that the people are not exploited by profiteers, particularly in the sale of essential items like rice.
The Prime Minister reiterated the government's commitment to re-targeting subsidies to benefit only the needy, citing past subsidies that also benefited the wealthy and foreign citizens. He emphasized the importance of directing subsidies to the hardcore poor and marginalized communities, including those in urban and rural areas.
In conclusion, the government is taking proactive measures to address the shortage of BPT and stabilize rice prices to ensure the welfare of the people. Enhanced monitoring and enforcement, along with targeted subsidies, are key strategies in overcoming these challenges and ensuring the availability of affordable rice for all Malaysians.
Reference: Keeping an eye on local white rice to address shortage | The Star
Ronny M is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
The User Content (as defined on Newswav Terms of Use) above including the views expressed and media (pictures, videos, citations etc) were submitted & posted by the author. Newswav is solely an aggregation platform that hosts the User Content. If you have any questions about the content, copyright or other issues of the work, please contact Newswav.