PETALING JAYA: The chairman of a government committee on food prices has disputed Padiberas Nasional Bhd’s (Bernas) claim that no discussions were held about a proposal to import white rice from Pakistan.
Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal questioned why Bernas had “falsely” claimed that no discussions had been held.
Yesterday, Bernas cautioned any party that issues media statements related to the issue of rice imports to support their comments with facts.
It said they should also ensure that comments are made only after discussing the matter with the relevant parties, including Bernas, to avoid creating any confusion among consumers as this could impact the stability of the national rice market.
This comes after Syed Hussin was reported as saying the government is considering importing white rice from Pakistan to address problems with supply and pricing.
Today, Syed Hussin explained that in October, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had announced Malaysia’s commitment to import an additional 100,000 metric tonnes of white rice from Pakistan.
This follows a request by the prime minister of Pakistan for Malaysia to purchase an additional 100,000 tonnes as well as RM200 million worth of halal beef, citing the trade balance between the two countries being in Malaysia’s favour.
He said he told Anwar that the additional purchase of 100,000 tonnes should focus on affordable sources so that it could be sold as lower-priced imported white rice in the local market to alleviate the rising cost of living.
He said the prime minister requested that he discuss the matter with Bernas. The meeting was held on Dec 11 last year, where Syed Hussin sought the sole rice importer’s approval to import 100,000 tonnes of white rice from Pakistan.
He said he went on a follow-up visit to Pakistan from Dec 16 to 19 to meet with 28 of the country’s rice exporters. They had expressed willingness to supply the additional 100,000 tonnes at prices lower than the global market rate.
“However, upon returning from the visit, three Bernas representatives informed me that they would not grant permission to import the cheaper white rice from Pakistan,” Syed Hussin said.
“Why is Bernas spreading misleading information and obstructing the importation of more affordable Pakistani white rice? Does Bernas not value the hardships faced by the people?.
© Copyright 2023 The SSResource Media.
All rights reserved.