Prioritise quality and expand Menu Rahmah

5 January 2025

BANGI: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on food stall and cafe operators at public universities to prioritise the provision of balanced and nutritious meals, emphasizing the importance of student well-being over profit margins.

During the launch of Kuali Cafe@UKM at the Pusanika Building of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), he stressed the significance of the Menu Rahmah initiative, advocating for its continuation across all universities to ensure that students have access to affordable and healthy food options.

"I hope this initiative goes beyond UKM, reaching other campuses as well. Remember, profits should not come at the expense of our students' health. This initiative brings blessings, and the prayers of students who receive nutritious and reasonably priced meals are invaluable," he stated.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, highlighted the responsibility of food operators to engage in effective food waste management practices, underscoring the need to protect the environment and maintain ecological balance.

In a parallel statement, UKM Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Ekhwan Toriman expressed his aspirations for Kuali Cafe@UKM to become more than just a dining venue. He envisions it as a place where the UKM community can come together to share experiences, create cherished memories, and foster deeper friendships.

"This launch is timely, complementing the revitalisation of UKM Pusanika. We aim for the cafe to serve as a unifying destination, offering a wide array of enticing and flavourful dishes to cater to diverse tastes within the community," he added.