PANDAN INDAH: Ehsan Mart has expanded its offering of subsidized products, introducing six additional items to improve access to essential goods for the B40 and M40 income groups. This strategic move aims to provide relief amid ongoing economic challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Selangor Infrastructure and Agriculture Committee chairman, Datuk Ir Izham Hashim, announced the expansion during the opening ceremony of the second Ehsan Mart in Pandan Utama, Pandan Indah. The new products include detergent, biscuits, flour, sardines, vermicelli, and disposable diapers, bringing the total number of subsidized items to 12. These items are available at Ehsan Mart outlets and through the Jelajah Ehsan Rakyat (JER) programme.

Izham emphasized the social and economic benefits of the initiative, highlighting that the supermarket offers prices 15 to 20 percent lower than the market average. The affordability of essential goods aims to alleviate the financial burden on local communities and serves as a critical food distribution center during emergencies.

Selangor State Development Corporation (PKPS) chief executive officer, Datuk Dr Mohamad Khairil Mohd Razi, and Ampang Jaya Municipal Council president, Dr Ani Ahmad, were also present at the event. Izham noted that Ehsan Mart functions as a storage hub for the Selangor Food Warehouse, playing a pivotal role in maintaining the state’s food supply chain.

“Through the JER programme, a subsidy worth RM12 million benefitted over 4.5 million Selangor residents across more than 1,200 sales locations last year,” Izham disclosed, underscoring the program’s extensive reach and impact.

Meanwhile, Mohamad Khairil explained that the expansion of subsidized products was motivated by community demand and aims to ease the rising cost of living. He clarified that the supermarket operates not for commercial profit but as a state government initiative through PKPS to ensure food security and support the local economy.

Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari had previously indicated that the opening of Ehsan Mart is part of the continued efforts of the Jelajah Ehsan Rakyat programme, launched by PKPS in August 2022, to provide affordable essential goods to the public.