Ihsan Rahmah to be expanded

Checking out: Shoppers at a supermarket in Labuan.

Private sector’s participation will see more discounts, rebates for consumers

PUTRAJAYA: Consumers can expect to enjoy greater savings, thanks to industries and the private sector, which have decided to jump onto the Rahmah initiative bandwagon to help people deal with the rising cost of living.

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said this will be one of the new inclusions to the initiative for 2024 and will be an industry-driven effort.

To be known as the Ihsan Rahmah initiative, certain companies and industries will be offering consumers discounts and rebates.

“The discounts and rebate offers will be made through applications and discount cards. Details will be announced once ready,” he said after addressing the ministry’s staff yesterday.

Armizan said several industry players and the private sector had approached him to express their interest to introduce cost-saving initiatives to the public.

“It is heartening to know this as it proves that Malaysians are a caring lot.

“The government agrees to their participation as it will see the Rahmah programme being expanded and people will be able to enjoy more benefits,” he said.

In 2023, several initiatives under the “Rahmah” banner were carried out – Jualan Rahmah, Menu Rahmah, Bakul Rahmah, Kafe Rahmah and Pakej Rahmah.

Armizan disclosed that certain companies are also planning to offer discounted meals for their staff members and any additional cost will be borne by the companies concerned.

The Ihsan Rahmah programme will start once all loose ends have been tied up, he added.

“We will continue with all of our Rahmah initiatives as it is a national agenda that looks after the welfare of the people,” he gave his assurance.

The minister also said the Rahmah sales programme will also be held during every festive season starting from this year.

“This will allow consumers to obtain goods needed for their festive celebration at reasonable prices,” he added.

He also said a dedicated calendar will be created so that the public could be informed of the Rahmah sales programme that would take place near them.

“The calendar will show where the sales programme will be held within the month. This way, the public can plan as to when they can shop for goods at sales price,” he said.

The Rahmah sales programme calendar will be available at the ministry’s website.