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KUALA LUMPUR – The Higher Education Ministry must identify undergraduates deserving of the RM3.50 Keluarga Malaysia student food basket initiative to ensure the programme benefits only those who are qualified, said academician Anuar Ahmad.
The Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia researcher said that while the initiative is commendable, it must be implemented in a way underprivileged students will be able to benefit from.
At the same time, he said, the government should identify a mechanism to ensure food operators involved in the programme do not go under simply to meet the preset conditions.
“Not every student (should be given food basket aid). Many are financially capable as they come from wealthy families. Identify the target group for the aid, perhaps about 30% (of all students), depending on each university,” The Vibes’ Malay language sister portal Getaran quoted him as saying.
“However, setting a ceiling price in certain situations could, over the long run, cause traders to suffer losses, especially if the price set is too low. I feel another method that can be considered instead is providing vouchers and capping prices at an appropriate rate.
“This is necessary to show that we also support businesses. But for a start, we can go with a ceiling price of RM3.50,” he said when contacted.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad had announced on Monday the government’s decision to introduce quality food at a ceiling price of RM3.50 per item.
Anuar, however, said the government should study the feasibility of a price cap in all universities across the country, considering the current rising cost of goods.
“For states like Kelantan and Terengganu, maybe the cost is reasonable. But for states where the cost of living is known to be high, the government should reconsider.”
Separately, to help food vendors and operators in university campuses weather the current inflation, Anuar proposed that the government reduce the rental rates, on top of the six-month rent moratorium already announced.
“We were informed there are universities that are about to kickstart the RM3.50 food programme. Students who want to enjoy this price must buy the food on campus. If students frequently eat outside of campus, operators won’t be able to do business.
“But I believe we should just go ahead with this initiative so we can see whether it is able to succeed, where operators don’t suffer losses and the students get quality food."
In addition, Anuar also suggested that the ministry work together with universities to offer part-time jobs to underprivileged students. – The Vibes, July 7, 2022
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