Why did the government form an inflation task force only after six months of rising prices?

Question

Accepted Answer

Government Task Force on Inflation Formed Amidst Criticism of Delayed Response

The federal government announced the formation of a Special Task Force on Jihad Against Inflation on June 29, a move that drew criticism for its timing, as it came after six months of escalating prices for essential goods, particularly chicken. Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim pointed out that such committees are typically established at the onset of an issue, rather than after the public has already experienced prolonged hardship. The task force, chaired by Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa, comprises four other ministers and the chief secretary to the government, with the mandate to devise strategies to combat inflation.
Timing of the Task Force Announcement

The formation of the Special Task Force on Jihad Against Inflation was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on June 29. This announcement followed a period of six months during which the prices of chicken and other goods had been steadily increasing. Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim specifically highlighted that the price of chicken had been on the rise since around Hari Raya, continuing through Hari Raya Haji and the Chinese New Year period.
Established Procedures for Addressing Issues

Anwar Ibrahim, speaking at a Selangor Pakatan Harapan rally, expressed his view that government committees are usually launched at the beginning of an emerging issue. He contrasted this with the current situation, where the task force was formed months after consumers had already been significantly impacted by rising costs. He suggested that the delayed formation indicated a lack of proactive engagement with the public's economic challenges.
Mandate and Operational Structure of the Task Force

The Special Task Force on Jihad Against Inflation is chaired by Tan Sri Annuar Musa and includes four other ministers along with the chief secretary to the government. Its primary objective is to formulate strategies aimed at combating inflation and the escalating prices of goods. The task force is scheduled to convene twice weekly, on Mondays and Thursdays, with press conferences to follow each meeting to disseminate information on their discussions and decisions.
Reintroduction of Chicken Ceiling Price

The announcement of the inflation task force coincided with the government's decision to reintroduce a ceiling price for chicken. This new ceiling price was set at RM9.40 per kilogram. This measure came after the previous ceiling price of RM8.70 per kilogram was slated for removal on July 1, indicating a government response to the persistent issue of rising food costs.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why did the government form an inflation task force only after six months of rising prices?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends