More than a slogan
1MALAYSIA is now, undoubtedly, more than mere symbolism. No longer is it just an exhortation for the assembling of a single, united Malaysian nation; it now also supplies the bricks and mortar for its construction. With the opening of the Kedai Rakyat 1Malaysia, and following the start of 1Malaysia clinics earlier, another aspect of the concept is being concretised. This grocery store, the first of a promised private-public sector collaboration chain, demonstrates that the 1Malaysia commitment to equality and welfare, already part of certain government programmes, is becoming even more inclusive.
The Kedai Rakyat is part of a safety net to inhibit the deleterious effects of rising inflation. Caused by interlocking external factors that individual countries can do little about, the global rise in the prices of staples and other essentials -- which has made for social unrest in several Mediterranean and other nations -- is a matter of urgency across most of the world. However, between Prasarana Negara Berhad and its private sector partner, Mydin Mohammed Holdings, Malaysia can once again outwit prevailing patterns.
Obviously, a thrift store is what it takes to keep buoyant the purchasing power of the consuming public. Of course, the emphasis is on accommodating the needs of the lower income group. But, what greatly adds to the lure and charm of the Kedai Rakyat chain in terms of public policy is the impact it would have on the domestic real economy. Building on Mydin's extant network of small and medium-sized producers, this chain, when it happens, will build up and broaden the local SME base, thus strengthening the economy and reducing dependence on imported food items. What better time to increase the robustness of the real economy than when all external factors that can adversely affect it are at their least friendly.
Obviously, a thrift store is what it takes to keep buoyant the purchasing power of the consuming public. Of course, the emphasis is on accommodating the needs of the lower income group. But, what greatly adds to the lure and charm of the Kedai Rakyat chain in terms of public policy is the impact it would have on the domestic real economy. Building on Mydin's extant network of small and medium-sized producers, this chain, when it happens, will build up and broaden the local SME base, thus strengthening the economy and reducing dependence on imported food items. What better time to increase the robustness of the real economy than when all external factors that can adversely affect it are at their least friendly.
Additionally, a good brand will become a household word and stand for specific products and services in popular parlance. Many basic items of the Kedai Rakyat are packaged with the 1Malaysia logo. The prices of these items are substantially lower, which should endear them to the consumer. If with that comes a quality product, the brand will build loyalty. 1Malaysia, however, is more than just a brand. It already embodies the idea that is the thrust of nation-building. Consequently, as a product brand it will carry a message that goes beyond consumerism. It will have a sentimental value arising from a concerned leadership earnestly aspiring to a Malaysia for all Malaysians, achieved by creating a sense of belonging through a shared economic prosperity and social well-being.
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