JOHOR BARU Feb 9 — The federal government’s "Menu Rahmah” initiative is a "win-win” solution for the country that is seeking to bounce back economically after the Covid-19 pandemic, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Deputy Minister Fuziah Salleh said today.

She noted that the meals priced from RM5 will entice customers with its affordability and at the same time, boost sales for the food operators so they can remain in business, balancing market demand and supply.

"When the Menu Rahmah became popular and food operators took the opportunity to increase their sales, it indirectly triggers the demand-and-supply in the market to be a reality,” she told reporters after a dialogue session on the cost of living at the DoubleTree Hotel here.

"So, this creates a win-win situation,” she added.

More than 15,000 restaurants nationwide are reported to have taken part in the Menu Rahmah initiative, offering meals at the cheap price of RM5 for lunch or dinner starting January 31.

The initiative was part of the government’s effort to ensure those in the lower income groups would be able to afford regular meals.

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub has said that the concept for a "Menu Rahmah” affordable package could be introduced in other sectors outside food-and-beverage.

As example, he said the healthcare sector could come up with those healthcare treatments for those in need, especially the B40 income group.