KUALA LUMPUR: Padiberas Nasional Berhad (Bernas) welcomes Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's suggestion to examine and refine the Madani white rice scheme.
In a statement today, Bernas stressed the importance of conducting a comprehensive engagement session involving all relevant parties before making any decisions.
In assisting the government's efforts to offer lower-priced imported white rice, Bernas said it will examine international rice market conditions, operating costs, and foreign exchange rates.
"Despite the trend of imported white rice price being at its highest level in the past 15 years, Bernas imported and distributed 1.03 million metric tonnes of white rice in 2023, marking a 46 per cent increase compared to the previous year," it said.
Bernas assured that it remains dedicated to fulfilling social obligations in managing the nation's rice reserves and serving as the 'Buyer of Last Resort'.
"Bernas reiterates its stance in providing full cooperation to the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, related agencies, and authorities in seeking the best intervention mechanisms and steps to ensure a stable and sufficient rice supply for Malaysians.
Meanwhile, Bernas lauded the government's efforts in considering the views from various parties including government representatives, industry players, academics, and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) during the National Cost of Living Action Council (Naccol) 2024 special meeting on Friday.
On Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Bernas has agreed to review the price of imported white rice. (hyperlink: https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.nst.com.my/amp/news/nation/2024/02/1017...)
This, he said, would provide an alternative for the people to purchase rice at a more affordable price.
Anwar also said there will be more discussions over the introduction of the "Madani white rice", which was earlier touted to enforce a single classification for both locally produced and imported white rice.
He said the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry would have discussions with relevant stakeholders, before the findings are tabled with the Cabinet on March 20.