Fast food chains interested in joining Menu Rahmah, says minister

Several major fast food chains have expressed interest in participating in the Menu Rahmah programme to assist the B40 group in the country.

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Salahuddin Ayub said they appeared keen to be part of the initiative following the encouraging response to the programme since its launch two weeks ago.

"This is great news for Malaysians as the operators have stated their interest in offering Menu Rahmah offerings after Burger King launched some products under RM5 previously," he told reporters in Kangar yesterday.

He added that several major international fast food chains would make their decisions next week.

"They plan to introduce burgers as their Menu Rahmah offerings as it is easier for customers, especially the youth," he said, adding that there were also businesses in other industries, including textiles and healthcare, who were interested in being part of the initiative.

"There are those who want to introduce ‘Shopping Rahmah Raya’ to help Malaysians prepare for Aidilfitri. This matter will be further discussed to identify what can be offered by those operators," he said. 

He said there were also some private clinics interested in introducing "Rahmah" healthcare services, including health tests at prices as low as RM40.

"I will discuss this with the health ministry first. If there are no objections, it will be implemented later," he said.

He said his ministry did not put any pressure on businesses to join the Rahmah programme, but that it had received a huge response from many parties, especially the food sector initially, which then carried over to other sectors.

"This shows that Malaysians are conscientious and love to contribute, they are rushing to be a part of it," he added.