PETALING JAYA: The RM50mil allocation to expand the Rahmah initiative nationwide is commendable, but Putrajaya must ensure targeted groups truly benefit from it, say observers.
Mydin Mohamed Holdings managing director Datuk Wira Ameer Ali Mydin said the initiative is a good programme as it encompasses both the M40 and B40.
“I hope this will be more targeted. It must reach the poor,” he said.
He added that many people are appreciative of the initiative started by the late Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub in January.
“Mydin supermarkets will continue this because there is a need in society for such a programme,” said Ameer Ali.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the increased allocation for the Rahmah initiative at a National Consumers Day 2023 event in Bukit Jalil.
He said the extra allocation would enable the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry to ensure that the rakyat throughout the country would benefit from the initiative.
He added that the allocation was in line with the government’s aim of ending hardcore poverty in the country.
Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) chief executive officer Saravanan Thambirajah commended the plan to expand the Rahmah initiative, saying it would benefit many people in the lower income group.
“This shows the government is committed to further assisting vulnerable groups,” he said.
He also said Rahmah programmes had seen many daily necessities sold out at participating vendors.
Former Persatuan Anak Peneroka Felda Kebangsaan chairman Datuk Mazlan Aliman said there must be an organised strategy and mechanism, especially to help the young.
Malaysia Consumers Movement secretary-general Sukhdave Singh said the programme has helped the lower-income community acquire essentials at a reasonable price.
“Menu Rahmah gives people the option of affordable nutritional meals.
“The government must continue with such initiatives until the cost of living becomes manageable with people earning a better income,” he added.
