LETTER | Malaysia Madani white rice: Engage stakeholders first

LETTER | The decision to abolish the “super special tempatan” (SST) and “super special import” (SSI) categories in favour of introducing the Malaysia Madani white rice has certainly stirred up questions and concerns.

Among those who raised concerns were stakeholders like Mydin hypermarket and the Consumers Association of Subang & Shah Alam, Selangor (Cassa).

Mydin’s managing director Ameer Ali Mydin's call for clarity on the rationale behind this move is understandable, especially considering the potential impact on market dynamics and pricing.

The government must provide a transparent explanation regarding the transition to Malaysia Madani white rice and address concerns raised by industry players like Mydin hypermarket.

This includes clarifying whether the Malaysia Madani white rice will effectively replace both the SST and SSI categories and how it will impact pricing and availability in the market.

Moreover, Cassa president Jacob George's point about the importance of stakeholder consultation before such decisions are made resonates well.

Consulting with industry experts and consumer representatives can help ensure that any changes implemented are in the best interest of all parties involved and effectively address underlying issues.

Overall, while the announcement of the Malaysia Madani white rice at a competitive price is welcomed, it's essential for the government to engage in transparent communication and consultation with stakeholders to address uncertainties and ensure a smooth transition for all.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.