Minister: Menu Rahmah for all, non-halal restaurants can use label

The Menu Rahmah affordable meal options will be extended to non-halal restaurants for the benefit of non-Muslim customers while retaining its name that stems from the Arabic word meaning compassion.

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Salahuddin Ayub said the term rahmah goes beyond race and religion, despite its roots and usage in Islam.

"We use the ‘Rahmah’ (label) for other packages so why stop at non-halal food? ‘Rahmah’ is for all," the Amanah deputy president said in an interview with Malay Mail.

The "Rahmah" label has also been used in various ministry efforts to help with the high cost of living including affordable menu items, "Bakul Rahmah" groceries aid, "Pakej Rahmah" essential goods packet, "Jualan Rahmah" series of supermarket sales; and "Kafe Rahmah" targeted for students.

Salahuddin (above) said while he had previously suggested for non-halal restaurants instead use the term "Menu Kasih Sayang", he strongly believed that the "Rahmah" concept is one that applies to all Malaysians.

“We want to promote inclusiveness, (the ‘Rahmah’ initiative) is for all, that’s the most important thing.

"Islam teaches us that a government has to help everyone, we cannot segregate or discriminate," he added.

Salahuddin reportedly said that his ministry has engaged with non-halal eateries associations and received positive feedback with many expressing interest in the initiative.

The ministry will also look into a reported request from Ipoh Barat MP M Kulasegaran for more vegetarian food options at rest and service areas (R&Rs) nationwide.

"I will discuss with relevant stakeholders and other ministries on the matter," he added.

Menu Rahmah was launched on Jan 31 with voluntary participation from restaurants offering set meals for as low as RM5, as part of the government’s short-term efforts to mitigate the inflation squeeze on low-income earners.

Salahuddin previously defended the initiative as bringing no loss to participating restaurant owners, and instead, could potentially increase the number of daily diners.

Last week, the minister said that a total of 1,531 businesses have registered to implement the Menu Rahmah initiative and the number is expected to further increase. - Mkini