First MADANI Mart Draws Strong Crowds On Second Day

KUANTAN, April 4 (Bernama) -- Public response to the first MADANI Mart outlet in the country at Indera Mahkota 8 (IM8) remains encouraging, with customers queuing early on the second day of operations despite the premises opening at 10am.

Its managing director Mohd Nor Hilmi Nawi, 28, said the turnout reflects strong interest in lower-priced essential goods and the Rahmah Sales programme.

“Alhamdulillah, we are seeing very good response on the second day. We expect this is due to the Rahmah Sales held from yesterday until today,” he said when met by Bernama here today.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiated the MADANI Mart, an initiative aimed at easing the cost of living.

Led by Yayasan MADANI, the initiative introduces a community retail concept offering daily necessities at affordable prices under the slogan “Kedai Runcit Harga Rahmah”.

Mohd Nor Hilmi said items sold at lower prices include rice, eggs, chicken and sugar.

He added that efforts will continue to keep essential goods affordable even after the Rahmah Sales period.

On the MyKasih payment system, he said there are plans to introduce it in the future to facilitate purchases for aid recipients.

He said the idea to establish MADANI Mart was inspired by the Rahmah Sales programme, which is typically held on a temporary and mobile basis.

“I felt it would be better to have a fixed outlet so people know the location and operating hours,” he said.

Meanwhile, Fariza Zainal, 30, said the outlet offers lower prices than regular supermarkets and a wide range of goods.

“For me, MADANI Mart is affordable and helps the B40 group obtain daily necessities,” she said.

Another customer, Rosnita Ahmad, 42, said she purchased items such as soap and malt drinks at lower prices.

She hopes the Rahmah Sales period will be extended so more people in Kuantan can benefit.

“I hope the sale continues longer. If MyKasih is available here, more people will come,” she added.

-- BERNAMA