The government has decided for its institutions, such as the military, police, schools, hostels and hospitals, to use imported white rice from today to enable the people to obtain local rice.
In a statement, the ministry clarified that the country's rice industry was regulated by the Kawalselia Padi dan Beras (KPB) regulatory body (padi and rice monitor) through the Rice Control Act 1994 (Act 522).
Concerns over rice supply shortages and industry monopoly can be averted if Padiberas Nasional Bhd (Bernas) fulfils 10 obligations following the government's move to extend its concession for the distribution of the staple food until 2031.
Farmers in the country have welcomed the government initiative to implement a new maximum control price adjustment for the Certified Padi Seed Incentive (IBPS) programme in Peninsular Malaysia, which came into effect yesterday.
The government recognises the need to expand rice cultivation areas in Sabah and Sarawak in order to boost rice supply and ensure national food security.
