by ASILA JALIL / pic by MUHD AMIN NAHARUL

MORE than 600,000 individuals who were severely affected due to the pandemic have received aid under the Malaysia Food Bank Programme.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said his ministry had assisted 624,954 individuals and 17,954 students under the programme which aims to alleviate the burden of those less fortunate.

“We will also distribute food assistance, which was contributed by 99 Speed Mart Sdn Bhd, to 46 of the ministry’s staff. Hopefully this will reduce their burden ahead of the Hari Raya celebration,” he said in his speech during the launch of Jualan Prihatin Raya (JPR) programme last Friday.

The JPR programme, which is the first of its kind under the ministry, allows consumers to purchase basic needs to prepare for the celebration which falls on Thursday.

He said the ministry has collaborated with main supply companies to provide basic necessities for the consumers at a price lower than the market.

Companies involved in the initiative include Leong Hup International Bhd, National Fishermen’s Association, Inayu Global Sdn Bhd, Kumpulan Legasi Z Sufi, Interglo Venture Sdn Bhd, and JY Retail and Trading Services.

Among the items available include poultry, eggs, sugar, cooking oil, flour and vegetables.

“The ministry really appreciates the collaboration from all parties in making JPR a success.

“We understand that preparing for the festive season this time around is very different from previous years, especially with the Movement Control Order in force.

“However, the ministry understands the people’s needs to buy basic necessities to celebrate Aidilfitri, which will take place in a few more days, although the situation is different this year,” Nanta Linggi said.

As Covid-19 continues to affect the livelihoods of many communities in the bottom 40% income group, he noted that the ministry had agreed to implement the Festive Season Maximum Price Control Scheme Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2021 effective April 21 until May 20, 2021.

“Vendors are advised to sell controlled items at not more than the ceiling price, ensure there is enough supply in the market, put price tags for controlled items and use proper weighing machines,” he said.