KUALA LUMPUR: The decision to introduce a single category of white rice to replace the existing classification will be finalised later today during the special meeting of the National Action Council for Cost of Living (NACCOL).
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said: "The Malaysia Madani white rice will be discussed this afternoon, but don't only ask about the issue of the white rice as the initiative (Jualan Rahmah programme) also involves the sale of other goods such as fish, chicken, meat, and vegetables at cheaper prices."
Speaking to reporters after the launch of Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) as Malaysia's International Financial Centre, Anwar said the announcement about prices, especially rice, must be made by the government.
"If there is a specific proposal, it can be done because this country practises democracy and it can be done."
Also present at the launch were Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Finance Ministry secretary-general Datuk Johan Mahmood Merican and TRX City Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Azmar Talib.
Previously, Bukit Gantang member of parliament Datuk Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Faisal said the government would introduce a single category of white rice, known as the Malaysia Madani white rice, eliminating the distinction between local white rice (SST) and imported white rice (SSI).
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, however, said the government has not made any decision on introducing a single category of white rice.
On another matter, Anwar said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Khaled Nordin is monitoring the resignation issue of some senior management of the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT).
"The minister is monitoring the situation and developments will be reported to the cabinet," he said.
On Monday, the head of the strategic asset allocation for LTAT, or senior director of strategy, Dayana Rogayah Omar tendered her resignation.
On Jan 31, LTAT chief executive Datuk Ahmad Nazim Abd Rahman resigned from his post, followed by chairman General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor on Feb 8.