Ministry Investigates Allegations Of 'Plastic Rice' Sold In Sabah After Viral Video
In the now-deleted video, an elderly woman claimed that her family had a sore throat after eating 'plastic rice' that she bought at a supermarket.
By Melissa Alvina — 10 Oct 2023, 01:47 PM
The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is conducting a thorough investigation following a viral incident where a customer alleged that 'plastic rice' was being sold at a supermarket in Sabah
According to Bernama, in the now-deleted video, an elderly woman claimed that her family had a sore throat after eating the rice which was sold at a supermarket in Sibu, last Saturday, 7 October.
The woman was also believed to have thrown a lump of rice, which she alleged was fake rice, in the video.
The clip received widespread criticism from netizens who were concerned about the quality of rice being sold in local markets, reported New Straits Times.
Acting Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali has since directed immediate investigations to be conducted by KPDN's Sandakan branch, together with its Padi and Rice Regulatory Division (KPB)
"The case is being investigated under Section 5 of the Trade Descriptions Act. We have visited the outlet involved and additional information is also being obtained from the person who shared a viral video on the allegation," New Straits Times quoted him as saying.
"We are also studying the invoices from retailers and suppliers," he added.
Armizan emphasised that investigations are also being conducted to check the validity of the claim.
Despite that, he reassured the public that the matter would be treated seriously, given its significance to the public's interests.
"We will not stop until the truth is revealed because this involves the interests of the people," he said.
Following that, a rice supplier filed an official complaint with KPB yesterday, 9 October, claiming that they have been affected by the viral video
"Investigations were carried out by the KPB Authority today and samples of the rice involved were taken at the supplier's premises to be sent to the chemistry department for analysis," Bernama quoted KPB branch chief, Mohd Izzwan Ibrahim, as saying.
Following the investigations, Mohd stated that KPB has denied the allegations that 'plastic rice' is being sold in the market, especially in Sibu.
He also explained that for each shipment of imported rice at the port, an essential safety certificate from the exporting country is required. Additionally, the statutory body Padiberas Nasional Berhad (BERNAS) conducts inspections before the rice is distributed.
Mohd went on to highlight that there seems to be no apparent reason for anyone to manufacture plastic rice, given its significant production costs.
However, he encouraged cautious consumers to report any concerns at the KPB office at Lot 1157, No 4C, 1st Floor, Block 6, Jalan Hua Khiew or call +6084-326 494.
