IPOH: The Local Government Development Ministry will consider setting up more bazaars selling things at affordable prices, says Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.
According to the deputy minister, a meeting will be held soon to discuss the setting up of what is known as the Rahmah bazaar.
“We welcome the initiative to have the Rahmah bazaar as it will be affordable for low-income groups.
“While we are supporting the initiative, the implementation will come under local councils (PBT).
“So meetings and discussions will be held with other ministries such as Domestic Trade and Cost of Living and PBTs.
“The discussion will be held before the fasting month starts (expected on March 23),” he said.
On Feb 22, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said the ministry is planning to have Rahmah bazaars in strategic locations in the Klang Valley.
“While the Ramadan bazaar is something we have during the fasting month, we believe that this year will be slightly different where there might be more Menu Rahmah food and discounts,” said Akmal Nasrullah.
Separately, he said the ministry, through local authorities, is focusing on balanced development in the cities that will meet the needs of its residents.
“We can see that during the Budget winding-up speech by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that the government is focusing on helping the people.
“The help channelled by the government will also help to reduce the gap in all classes,” he added.
On Thursday, Anwar urged all local councils to address issues related to urban or town planning to ensure balanced development that meets the various needs of city dwellers.
