Call for higher allocation to feed B40 students in Budget 2023

FOOD prices have soared but the meal budget allocation for poor primary pupils has not changed in over a decade.

The cost of food peaked last month, according to Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) data, but the allocation per child under the Supplementary Food Programme (RMT) has remained RM2.50 per pupil in the peninsula and RM3 in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.Association of School Canteen Operators secretary Siti Normah Md Desa said it is “illogical” to expect its members to prepare a nutritious meal with the paltry sum.