Perak: The recent initiative to lower rental rates for business premises owned by Federal government agencies is anticipated to significantly reduce the operational costs for traders, amidst rising fuel prices, according to Perak Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPM) president Amirudin Tajudin.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Amirudin highlighted that the reduction in rental rates would enable traders to either lower the selling prices for consumers or maintain current prices, thereby avoiding any increments. He emphasized that this measure would help entrepreneurs sustain their businesses even with diminished profit margins.

Amirudin expressed hope that state governments and local authorities would adopt similar initiatives. He also encouraged private companies to consider equivalent actions, as the collective impact would ultimately benefit the public.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim previously directed the reduction in rental rates for premises owned by Federal government agencies, such as Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) and UDA Holdings Bhd, effective from this month. This directive is part of the government's strategy to support traders and hawkers affected by the ongoing global supply crisis.

Additionally, Amirudin praised the government's decision to expand the Rahmah MADANI Sales Programme (PJRM), increasing its reach to 30,000 programmes this year, spanning all constituencies with regular weekly schedules. He noted that expanding the programme to rural areas and selected villages would create opportunities for local traders, particularly those operating small grocery shops.

The government's expansion of the PJRM initiative to a weekly basis nationwide aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by citizens, offering them some respite from the escalating cost of living.