Tok Mat: Address rising prices of food items, encourage “urban agriculture”

THE Government should address the rising prices of essential goods during the movement control order (MCO) as it is burdening the already stressed-out masses.

“Yes, we have enough supplies to cater for the people but lately, people are complaining about the rising prices of goods, especially food items.

“What is worrying is that the extension of MCO 2.0 is making the trend obvious. Something must be done about this.

“On top of providing enough food supply, the Government should also ensure the pricing matches with the people’s purchasing power,” Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said, in a Facebook post.

The Rantau state assemblyman said many Malaysian have lost their jobs, with some having their incomes slashed due to the economic downturn triggered by COVID-19.

He added that some of them have gone so poor that they even struggle to feed themselves and their families.

“Therefore, the Government must be proactive in ensuring food supply remains adequate, at the lowest price possible,” Hasan said.

Offering solutions, Hasan urged the Government to provide food vouchers and provide groceries to vulnerable communities, adding such measures are quite common in developed nations.

“The vouchers will not only help the vulnerable communities financially, it will also generate income for shop owners, especially our small-time businessmen, markets and restaurants,” said the veteran banker.

Hasan added that the Government should also encourage “urban agriculture” initiatives by promoting the establishment of edible garden at their respective homes.

“People can use their lawn to plant certain types of vegetables. Such measures will reduce their daily expenditure and allow them access to fresh produce, without the need to worry about contracting COVID-19,” he opined. – Jan 25, 2021.

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