A padi farmers' empowerment group questions the agriculture ministry's claim of having approved 30,000 applications for subsidy payouts.

This is despite the community's traditional link to the padi plantation sector.

There is also a fear that rising costs will be passed on to consumers if the mechanism does not perform according to expectations.

It's proof of the government's failure to tackle the rice supply crisis, says a former government adviser on agriculture.

Ex: The Dewan Rakyat speaker reaps a barrage of criticism and jokes for his remarks, many telling him to lead by example and switch to tapioca.

As the country grapples with a food crisis and price surge, some consumers resort to cheaper locally grown products, while others strive for self-sufficiency by growing their own food.

Strict action will also be taken against any party found engaging in illegal activities related to rice.

Minister Mohamad Sabu says this will allow more local rice in the market.

Many eateries are grappling with the increase in price of raw goods and other operational costs such as rent.

However, the supply is believed to be enough to meet demand.

The prime minister also says the government is open to negotiations on allocations for opposition MPs.

Experts say it is unlikely that the problems with local food supply will resolve on their own.