Rice Mixing Issue: Senators Call for Strict Action
Debating the Motion of Thanks on the Royal Address
In a move to address the long-standing issue of mixed rice in the country, a senator in the Dewan Negara today proposed the immediate enactment of a special act to prevent and address the mixing of imported white rice (BPI) with local white rice (BPT).
Betrayal of the Nation
Senator Abdul Nasir Idris, who tabled the motion, emphasized that such a measure was necessary as the act of mixing BPI and BPT, deemed a betrayal of the nation, remained unresolved by the authorities. He suggested that companies involved in manipulating BPI and BPT be subjected to strict action, including heavy fines and the revocation of operating licences.
Existence of Cartels
Echoing Abdul Nasir’s concerns, Senator Ros Suryati Alang said the ongoing issue of rice mixing indicated the existence of cartels, which had led to the shortage of local rice and adversely affected the people. She proposed that the government establish a special task force to oversee all rice mills handling paddy.
Lower Price of BPT
Senator Datuk Lim Pay Hen, on the other hand, highlighted that the lower price of BPT should benefit the people, particularly the B40 group. However, the mixing of BPI and BPT had exacerbated the critical issue of BPT shortage in the market. He urged the government to provide a firm explanation on more serious strategic measures to curb the exploitation of BPT in the country.
Call for Action
The senators’ concerns have sparked a call for immediate action from the authorities to address the rice mixing issue. The Dewan Negara sitting will resume tomorrow, with the government expected to provide a response to the senators’ concerns.
Conclusion
The debate on the motion of thanks on the royal address has shed light on the importance of addressing the rice mixing issue in the country. It is essential that the government takes swift and decisive action to prevent the mixing of BPI and BPT, which has been detrimental to the nation’s rice industry and the people. The establishment of a special task force to oversee rice mills handling paddy and the implementation of strict measures to curb the exploitation of BPT are necessary steps towards resolving this critical issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the proposed special act?
A: The proposed special act aims to prevent and address the mixing of imported white rice (BPI) with local white rice (BPT).
Q: Why is the issue of rice mixing important?
A: The issue of rice mixing has led to the shortage of local rice and has had a negative impact on the nation’s rice industry and the people.
Q: What are the proposed measures to address the rice mixing issue?
A: The proposed measures include the establishment of a special task force to oversee rice mills handling paddy and the implementation of strict measures to curb the exploitation of BPT.
Q: What is the current situation regarding the rice mixing issue?
A: The issue of rice mixing remains unresolved, with the authorities yet to take decisive action to address the problem.