PUTRAJAYA: The decision not to float the price of chicken was made based on feedback from the public, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
The Prime Minister said that there was no "U-turn" made on the issue as the government would continue to prioritise the interest of the Malaysian people.
"After listening to the views of the people, we decided to accept their input and decisions.
"It is not an issue of U-turn or anything, that is not important," he told reporters at Putrajaya's Recreation Day 2022 here on Saturday (June 25).
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He was asked to respond to Opposition lawmakers who claimed that the government was not consistent in its policies when it decided to make a "U-turn" only three days after announcing that the ceiling price for chicken would be removed.
The current ceiling price for standard chicken, which was set at RM8.90 per kg in Peninsular Malaysia, was initially slated to be removed on July 1.
On June 24, the government announced that the prices for chicken would not be floated and a new ceiling price would be announced soon.
"The most important thing is that it (decision) will bring benefit to the people.
"That is the most important," added Ismail Sabri.
Asked about the price of chicken eggs, he said that the Agriculture and Food Industry Minister would make an announcement on it soon.
ALSO READ: PM: Chicken prices will not be floated
"Let us wait for the minister's announcement," said the Prime Minister.
On the supply of essential items during the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration, Ismail Sabri said that there was enough supply and stressed that it was under the purview of the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry.
Earlier, Ismail Sabri had made a walkabout to visit the booths at the festival.
He also took some time to go to several booths including a cat competition.
He also expressed his happiness that various races and racial backgrounds had come out to attend the event which was in line with the spirit of Keluarga Malaysia (Malaysian Family).
