Govt launches special team to address rise in cost of living

PETALING JAYA: A special team, dubbed "Jihad Tangani Inflasi" (Jihad on Addressing Inflation), comprising several senior figures, has been formed by the government following its weekly Cabinet meeting as it seeks to assist Malaysians burdened by the rising cost of living.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (pic) said the special team would collect all relevant information from ministries, agencies and the public, to draft a strategy and coordinate efforts in addressing issues concerning inflation.

Ismail Sabri also said the special team, led by Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa, would coordinate efforts to control the rise in prices more efficiently and effectively.

"The special team functions the same as the previous team handling the Covid-19 pandemic, where meetings will be held twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays," added Ismail Sabri.

Ismail Sabri said a press conference would be held after every meeting so the special team can explain issues raised by regular Malaysians.

"This step is taken due to the challenges of the rise of the cost of living that was caused by climate change and geopolitical uncertainties, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict that has affected market prices of food commodities and fuel," added the Bera MP.

The special team will be chaired by Annuar, and it will consist of Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Agriculture and Food Industries Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Economy) Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.

Ismail Sabri also said specific officers from each ministry would be appointed as focal point officers to give immediate response to the Special Team, of which the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry will be its secretariat.

"The government is always working towards ensuring Keluarga Malaysia isn't seriously affected by the rise in inflation across the world," added Ismail Sabri.

Ismail Sabri's announcement came following the weekly Cabinet meeting on Wednesday that also announced that the new ceiling price for standard chicken has been set at RM9.40 per kg.