The purchase limit for subsidised Local White Rice (Beras Putih Tempatan, BPT) has been increased from two bags to five bags per transaction, according to a report by a local news outlet.
Photo via The Star
Agriculture and Food Security Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, said this move is part of the government’s effort to encourage Malaysians to buy local rice and prevent excess stock from sitting unused on shelves.
So far, over four million bags of subsidised BPT have been distributed across the country. However, as of 5 May, public response has remained underwhelming, “This is the challenge we face today, even when something good is offered, it may not be accepted straightaway.
“We want to ensure these subsidised BPT stocks don’t go to waste and end up spoiled. The reality is, Malaysian consumers still tend to choose rice based on brand,” he said.
In response, a national campaign themed Saya Pilih Beras Tempatan (“I Choose Local Rice”) is set to launch this June.
According to the minister, the campaign will serve to raise awareness that local rice not only meets quality and taste expectations, but also holds great economic and strategic value.
Photo via The Edge Malaysia
Malaysia’s local rice is cultivated by our own farmers, mainly in areas like Kedah, Perlis, and parts of Perak and Selangor. It is a key part of our food security and national identity. Choosing local rice helps support the livelihoods of Malaysian farmers, reduces the country’s reliance on imported rice, which can be affected by global market prices, and strengthens our self-sufficiency in food production.
“Supporting local rice helps our farmers increase domestic output, and more importantly, it reduces our dependence on imports,” he added.
Despite being more affordable due to government subsidies, local rice is still underappreciated. With greater support and awareness, it can stand toe-to-toe with imported brands, while also boosting the local economy.
