MAFS is still researching the appropriate rice pricing

Kuala Lumpur – The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) is now evaluating the suitable pricing of rice.

Datuk Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal, Head of the Food Cluster Monitoring Task Force at the National Livelihood Action Council (NACCOL), stated that his organization has devised a solution for the optimal pricing of rice.

The price of rice remains unresolved. I have proposed a’solution’ to NACCOL, while the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security (Mohamad Sabu) is currently conducting an analysis.

“My proposal remains valid for presentation,” he stated during his news conference.

We will disclose the implementation mechanism at a later date.

“We must not overlook the commencement of the Madani Cheapest Sale (JTM) on December 7.”

“Currently, we are following the importation of rice from Pakistan,” he stated.

Mohamad Sabu previously stated that the ceiling price of domestic rice requires reevaluation, including current production expenses, future cost forecasts, and fluctuations in global white rice prices.

The maximum price of beras putih tempatan (BPT) has been established at RM2.60 per kilogram since 2008 to guarantee equitable pricing for consumers in response to the abrupt surge in global food costs.

Despite the strong correlation between the BPT selling price and the purchasing price of padi, he stated that the maximum price of rice remains unchanged after 16 years.

In late 2022, the Malaysian Rice Manufacturers assured that they would elevate the paddy purchase price to RM1,500 per tonne contingent upon a rise in the BPT ceiling price to RM3.20 per kilogram.

This action is a response to the government’s initiative to reassess the rise in the BPT ceiling price, aiming to protect the interests of all stakeholders in the food production chain, particularly rice farmers.