According to Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh, the proposal to introduce Madani rice, which will combine local white rice and imported rice under one category, will have an impact on the pricing of the staple. He mentioned that the Madani rice will eliminate the sale of local white rice, and if it is sold, traders will likely stop selling local white rice priced at RM26 in favor of the more profitable option priced at RM30, even though padi farmers will keep their prices at the same level.
Dr Akmal Saleh also criticized the statement made by Bukit Gantang MP Datuk Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal, urging him to be cautious before making any statements without conducting proper research. He also urged Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to advise the MP about being cautious when making any official statement so that it does not affect the public. This statement was made in a video posted on his social media on Sunday (Feb 18).
Recently, Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz announced that the government will introduce a single category for white rice to replace local and imported white rice in the country’s market, known as Malaysian Madani White Rice. He also mentioned that the government will set a ceiling price for white rice at RM30 for 10 kilograms (kg) of rice, while 5kg will be priced at RM15.50 and 1kg at RM3.50.
The Umno Youth chief expressed his concern about the introduction of Madani rice and its possible impact on local rice pricing. He accused the government of allowing the mixing of local and imported rice despite being against it in the past. He emphasized the need for caution and proper research before making any official statements that could potentially impact the public.
Dr Akmal Saleh urged the Prime Minister to take action and advise the MP to be more cautious when making statements. He expressed his dismay over the government’s decision to introduce a single category for white rice and set a ceiling price, which he believes will not be beneficial for the public in the long run.
The controversy surrounding the proposal to introduce Madani rice continues as different parties express their concerns and opinions about its potential impact on rice pricing in the country. The issue has raised questions about the government’s approach to managing the prices and distribution of rice, a staple food for many Malaysians. It remains to be seen how the government will respond to the criticisms and whether any changes will be made to the proposal in light of the public’s concerns.
