48,000 B40 individuals benefit from Cap Feri rice in just 3 months
GEORGE TOWN: A total of 48,000 individuals from the B40 income group have benefitted from the local rice brand Cap Feri within three months of its launch in December last year.
State Agrotechnology and Food Security Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol (PKR – Pantai Jerejak) said the Cap Feri rice was sold at accessible locations throughout the state, specifically targeting lower-income communities.
"As of March 20, a total of 16,000 bags (equivalent to 80 metric tonnes) of Cap Feri rice had been sold, generating RM272,000 in revenue," he said in response to a question from Izhar Shah Arif Shah (Bersatu – Seberang Jaya) at the state legislative assembly sitting today.
The rice is priced at RM17 for a 5kg bag, making it one of the most affordable options currently available on the market.
Fahmi attributed the positive response to both the rice's affordability and quality.
He said that Cap Feri was currently in its trial phase and uses imported rice due to a shortage in local supply.
The product is sold exclusively through Agro Madani sales programmes, organised by the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama), the Farmers' Organisation Authority (LPP), and the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM), ensuring direct access for the B40 group.
"The brand has been well-received, with all stocks selling out within two hours at each of the 32 Agro Madani sales events held across the state up to last month.
"While no public survey has yet been conducted to assess the programme's impact due to budget constraints, the state government may consider it if necessary in the future," he added.
The proposal to produce a locally branded rice product was approved at a Penang State Executive Council meeting on March 20 last year.
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