THE Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry will be introducing the Payung Rahmah initiative to reduce the cost of living for the lower-income group (B40) and hardcore poor.

Minister Salahuddin Ayub said the initiative, which will be launched on Tuesday, is the result of cooperation among several ministries, including the Economy Ministry and Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.

“The details will be announced on Tuesday and Payung Rahmah will be the focus of the ministry for the first six months,” he told reporters after the Pulai parliamentary personnel feast in Johor Baru last night.

“It is targeted at the B40 group and hardcore poor, who may be hard hit if the global economic situation worsens this year.”

The Pulai MP said the initiative includes giving out food baskets, holding Rahmah Kasih Sayang sale and having Cafe Rahmah for university students.

On the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration, Salahuddin said the ministry will be announcing a price control scheme next week. – Bernama, January 8, 2023.