KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians can now enjoy RM5 meals for lunch or dinner at nearly 15,000 food premises nationwide from today through the Menu Rahmah initiative.

The menu comprises a balanced meal that includes rice, a choice of protein either chicken or fish and vegetables which is being offered to those affected by the current increase in the cost of living.

However, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said he observed that some traders were also offering different food items such as fried noodles, rojak, roti John and kebab wrap or shawarma.

"To facilitate the people, we (KPDN) will put a Menu Rahmah sticker or sign at the premises involved so that the people will know which outlets are participating in the programme.

"We will also publicise this programme and I urge social media influencers to help the government spread the word around so that the people are aware of this benefit," he said after launching the programme at Mydin Subang Jaya Hypermarket, near here today.


He said so far, seven restaurant owner associations including the Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (PRESMA), the Malaysian Indian Restaurant Owners Association (PRIMAS) and the Malaysian Tomyam Restaurant Owners Association are involved.

Also participating in the programme are members of the Malaysia Singapore Coffee Shop Proprietors General Association (MCSPGA), Bumiputra Retailers Organisation (BRO), Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) and Malaysia Retailers Association (MRA).

Salahuddin said the programme would continue as long as the food outlets are willing to cooperate in providing the services.

"Should they (premises operators) find it hard to cope with the price, they can tell us (KPDN) so that we can discuss over this from time to time, but so far, they have no problem with the RM5 menu.

"Besides, I don't think others who are not from the hardcore or poor households will take advantage of the Rahmah Menu served," he said adding that they were free to do so if by the middle of the month their money runs low.


Meanwhile Salahuddin said all other 'Rahmah' initiatives would be implemented by the end of March.

The Bakul Rahmah aid will be given to the hardcore poor every month while under the Rahmah Package Price, 12 basic necessities can be purchased at a fixed price.

"The Kafe Rahmah initiative will be implemented at local universities starting in Kuala Lumpur, to cover free breakfast and lunch while evening meals will be offered at 50 per cent discount.

"These are among the small steps taken by KPDN to help the hardcore poor, low-income households and students from underprivileged families," he said.

-- BERNAMA