Govt will study proposal to raise local white rice ceiling price
The government intends to study a proposal to raise the ceiling price of local white rice.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said the study on the Paddy and Rice Regulatory Division’s proposal will involve scrutinising all aspects to ensure every party benefits from the decision.
The government intends to study a proposal to raise the ceiling price of local white rice.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said the study on the Paddy and Rice Regulatory Division’s proposal will involve scrutinising all aspects to ensure every party benefits from the decision.
“The Finance Ministry; Economy Ministry; Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry; and Agriculture and Food Security Ministry will examine the requirements and how to implement them.
“This study also needs to be carried out due to suggestions from several parties, because the price set has never changed since 2008,” he told reporters.
He said this when met at the Rahmah Sales booths, in conjunction with the National Farmers, Breeders and Fisherfolk's Day HPPNK 2023, at the Dataran Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah, today.
Paddy and Rice Regulatory Division director-general Azman Mahmood yesterday stressed that the ceiling price of local white rice should be increased to RM3.20 per kg, compared with the current RM2.60 per kg to protect the future of all parties involved in the food production chain, especially paddy farmers.
He also explained that the increase in the ceiling price is important to prevent the occurrence of local rice dumping, as manufacturers are no longer interested in continuing to purchase rice due to low prices.
Commenting on HPPNK 2023, Mohamad said he was confident that more than 500,000 visitors would attend the three-day event, which started on Nov 10.
“I am confident that the target will be achieved, based on the fact that up to noon (today), the total attendance is 488,662 visitors, involving 452,647 physical (attendance) and 36,015 online.”
The presence of visitors across various groups, he said, proves that the event is very beneficial to the people, not only to get basic necessities but also to learn more about agriculture.
“Their visit demonstrates their support for the government's commitment to appreciating the services and contributions of farmers, breeders and fisherfolk; the national heroes who always strive to ensure a sufficient supply of the country's food,” he added.
- Bernama
