KPDN nears one-year milestone: Reflecting on ministry's impact, and a tireless advocate for the less fortunate

SHAH ALAM - Unity Government is gearing up to mark its first year since the Cabinet was established on December 3, 2022.

Amidst various ministries, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) witnessed notable fluctuations, primarily due to the passing of its Minister, the late Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub. Despite this, Salahuddin's tenure brought forth the 'Payung Rahmah' initiative, aimed at alleviating the cost of living for the lower-income bracket and the destitute.

Salahuddin's primary mission as KPDN Minister was to combat the repercussions of high global inflation, currency instability, and a turbulent global economy, with the 'Payung Rahmah' package being his centerpiece.

His efforts not only thwarted price manipulations but also fortified the supply of basic necessities through various programmes such as Menu Rahmah, Jualan Rahmah, Bakul Rahmah, Kafe Rahmah, Pakej Rahmah, and Kereta Rahmah.

These programmes were instrumental in supporting Malaysians, especially those within the B40 category and the severely impoverished.

The Rahmah initiatives resonated beyond consumer relief; they garnered patronage from small businesses and key industry players, including prominent hypermarkets like Mydin, Giants, Aeon, and Lotus's.

Notable Rahmah Initiatives:

• Menu Rahmah Initiative:

Launched on January 31st, Menu Rahmah quickly became a hit, offering RM5 meal sets at participating restaurants. Catering to the B40 group and the economically disadvantaged, it ensures access to wholesome meals. Notably, major fast-food franchises have come on board, further bolstering this initiative.

• Bakul Rahmah Initiative:

Introduced in the 2023 Budget, Bakul Rahmah provides RM100 worth of essentials or vouchers monthly for six months to families in dire straits.

• Kafe Rahmah Initiative:

In response to the successful Rahmah Menu, the Madani Government introduced Kafe Rahmah for university students, offering free lunches and up to 50 per cent discounts on other meals at Mydin supermarkets and select eateries.

• Rahmah Insurance Initiative:

Allianz Malaysia and Etiqa rolled out the Rahmah Insurance and Takaful Packages, extending Payung Rahmah's benefits to personal and property protection. Allianz General's Allianz4All Protection Insurance, for instance, provides substantial personal accident coverage with added benefits, including medical reimbursements and emergency assistance.

• 5G Rahmah Initiative:

In sync with Malaysia's 2023 Independence Day, the 5G Rahmah Package introduces budget-friendly smartphone options with economical postpaid plans.

Public servants and media professionals are also eligible for special monthly rebates as part of this initiative.

These initiatives reflect Salahuddin's resolve in mitigating the financial burdens of Malaysians and ensuring accessibility to fundamental necessities and services.

What more of a legacy could he leave, than by serving others and making their daily lives better by seeing that their greatest needs could be met?

Undoubtedly, the nation is still mourning for losing a campaigner for the well-being of the poor.