The Johor government is willing to provide land for padi planting activities in order to assist the Federal Government in overcoming the shortage of local white rice (BPT).
In a Facebook post, Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi also suggested a number of measures for the Federal Government to consider, including establishing imported rice subsidies until the BPT is sufficient.
Repackaging rice into smaller packets, such as one or two kilogramme (kg) packs, will, according to him, make it simpler and more affordable for the general public, who are already struggling to make ends meet.
“The government was also told to consider importing rice from other countries, such as Indonesia, which offers rice at cheaper prices,” he wrote on his official Facebook page.
According to him, the problem of shortage of domestic rice and rising import rice prices has a significant impact on the populace, who are already facing higher living expenses.
“I have visited several locations to see for myself the reality of the situation at the grassroots level. I found that some basic food items, such as local rice, eggs, and subsidised cooking oil packets, are in short supply.
“This matter must be taken seriously by the State Government. I have asked Executive Councils involved and related agencies such as FAMA (Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority) to examine short-, medium- and long-term planning to meet the needs of the people,” he added.
.In a Facebook post, Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi also suggested a number of measures for the Federal Government to consider, including establishing imported rice subsidies until the BPT is sufficient.){kind=link}