JOHOR BARU: The government’s recent approval of 37 sugar importers to import sugar does not imply a shortage of sugar in the country, according to Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub. The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister clarified that this decision was not unusual and had no connection to the sugar supply. He added, “In the past, the ministry has also granted licenses to companies wishing to sell sugar to the industry. It is a normal occurrence. The important thing is to continue supporting companies in overcoming challenges, including the recruitment of foreign workers.” Salahuddin Ayub shared these remarks with reporters during the launch of the Payung Rahman initiative at a mall in Johor Baru. He also stated that any complaints related to sugar shortages would be promptly addressed by the ministry.
“For now, we do not have a major crisis. However, I acknowledge that there may be occasional stock issues in certain parts of the country. In such situations, I urge the public to lodge complaints with the ministry, and we will resolve them within a few hours,” he assured.
Earlier, it was reported that the government had granted approval to 37 companies to import 285,700 tonnes of refined white sugar this year. In a statement released on July 14, the ministry stated that this approval was a proactive measure to ensure stability in sugar supply by facilitating the Approved Permit (AP) process for importing refined white sugar.
Moving on to a separate matter, Salahuddin also announced that since April this year, approximately 1.1 million individuals from the B40 category and the poor have benefitted from the Rahmah initiative. He stated, “We are currently developing the Rahmah Economy plan to enhance the variety of programs under the Rahmah initiative, with the aim of reducing the burden on the targeted group.” He mentioned that the plan is expected to be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim next month.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
