CHUKAI: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is prepared to expand its Rahmah MADANI Sales (PJRM) programmes in states impacted by the initial wave of floods. Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali stated that the initiative, which provides essential goods at subsidised rates between 10 and 30 per cent, aims to alleviate the financial burden on flood-affected communities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, KPDN branches plan to collaborate with District Disaster Management Committees to pinpoint areas in need of this programme. While the initiative is currently operational, the ministry is ready to increase its frequency to offer relief to those experiencing losses due to the disaster. Minister Armizan conveyed this information after visiting Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Ayer Puteh.

Additionally, Armizan mentioned that there have been no significant reports of essential goods shortages or notable price surges during the first wave of the Northeast Mons
oon (MTL). He noted that while some complaints of supply shortages were received from districts like Pasir Mas and Tumpat in Kelantan, these issues were swiftly resolved.

Armizan emphasized that KPDN is closely monitoring price movements to prevent any abrupt increases. The ministry has also been in dialogue with Dedicated District Wholesalers (DDW) and Dedicated District Retailers (DDR) to ensure they do not exploit the situation by raising prices unfairly.

To address this year’s MTL, KPDN has appointed 1,369 DDRs and 635 DDWs across the country, allowing them to stockpile controlled goods beyond 30 per cent of their licensed storage limits during the monsoon season. The minister also encouraged assistance from non-governmental organizations and corporate entities for flood victims, advising them to procure supplies from outside the affected regions to avoid local shortages.