KUALA LUMPUR: Campus food stall and cafe operators at public universities have been urged to shift their focus from profit to providing balanced and nutritious meals, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He emphasized the importance of continuing the Menu Rahmah initiative to ensure that students have access to affordable and healthy food options.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid stressed the necessity of extending the Menu Rahmah initiative across all universities, moving beyond its current implementation at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). “Don’t prioritize profits. This initiative brings blessings, including the prayers of students for providing nutritious and reasonably priced meals,” he stated at the launch of Kuali Cafe@UKM at the UKM Pusanika Building.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, underscored the importance of effective food waste management by food operators to prevent environmental disruptions. He called for a systematic approach to managing food waste as part of the initiative.

Meanwhile, UKM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Ekhwan Toriman expressed his hopes that Kuali Cafe@UKM would become more than just a dining destination. In a statement, he envisioned it as a place for the UKM community to share experiences, create cherished memories, and foster stronger friendships. The launch of the cafe is seen as a complement to the rejuvenation of the UKM Pusanika, aiming to offer an array of enticing and flavorful meals to satisfy diverse tastes.