The Rahmah Rice Sales Program will provide imported rice in the price range of RM13 to RM14 per five-kilogram (kg) sack, with a primary focus on distribution to those in need. Fuziah Salleh, the Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister explained that the Rahmah Rice Sales Program has turned to imported rice due to the current shortage of local rice.
"In the Rahmah Sales campaign, we are offering prices for a five-kilogram sack of rice ranging from RM13 to RM14. KPDN will do its utmost to maintain the same pricing in the Rahmah Rice Sales.
"We are committed to selling at these prices. In other words, if local rice is priced at RM13, we will sell imported rice for the Rahmah Rice Sales," she stated. Regarding the specific target demographic for the Rahmah Rice Sales, Fuziah emphasized that KPDN aims to ensure that only eligible individuals can access this subsidized rice.
For instance, she mentioned that the program is directed towards the B40 group, low-cost housing areas, and the People's Housing Program (PPR), among others.
"That strategy (targeting specific settlement areas) may be one method for us to reach those in need and affected by the rice shortage.
"However, for business entities, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Assurance (KPKM) has expressed its willingness to take responsibility.
"We are actively exploring the best mechanisms to maximize access for those in need.
"Ultimately, the distribution will be organized according to parliamentary constituencies, ensuring that every constituency has access to this program," she added.
She also shared that some Members of Parliament have approached her, expressing their intention to utilize their allocations to enhance rice subsidies for constituents in their areas.
In response to public complaints regarding the scarcity of local rice in the market, including a survey conducted by Harian Metro in Chow Kit, Fuziah revealed that KPDN's enforcement officers have encountered difficulties in sourcing local rice in grocery stores, supermarkets, and hypermarkets.
