USM PENANG, 5 July 2022 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is gathering efforts from all parties concerned, from the Student Representatives’ Council (MPP), Desasiswa Residents’ Council (MPD), cafeteria operators and the Desasiswa Heads’ Council to ensure that the price of food items sold at all the university premises will be maintained.

According to Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Development Affairs and Alumni), Professor Dr. Azlinda Azman, USM continually monitors prices of items sold and seeks feedback from students regarding the matter.

"We are aware that many of the local students belong in the B40 bracket, and they are the ones highly affected from the rising cost of food items on campus, and which is why the university has imposed a ceiling price and conducting continuous checks," said Azlinda.

She further said that the Division of Student Development Affairs and Alumni (HEPA) has also met the MPP and MPD, as well as the Desasiswa Heads who are directly involved in student affairs on campus.

"USM is truly appreciative and thankful to the MPP, MPD and the cafetaria operators who are working closely with the university in dealing with this issue.

“The cafeteria operators have given their commitment to not raise prices irresponsibly, which then could affect the students.

'The campus cafetarias have also taken measures to sell food at reasonable prices, to assist students in dealing with the issue," added Azlinda.

One initiative taken is to introduce the ‘economy’ menu at all student residences’ cafeteria in USM at the price of RM5.00. The dish offers students white rice, vegetables, fish/chicken and gravy/chilli condiment or paste.

USM will also introduce the ‘Plastic-Free Cafes’ move at all student residences’ cafeteria in USM on 1 August 2022, after the initiative was launched at Desasiswa Saujana on 30 June 2022.

With the reduction in the cost of purchasing plastic items used as food containers, cups for drinks, straws and plastic bags, the cafeteria operators will work together with University authorities to prepare meals and drinks at reasonable prices.

"USM too, is promoting the practice of bringing personal food and drink containers as well as using reusable bags every time meals are bought from the cafeteria.

"At the same time, USM is also making it a norm to use personal-use metal straws when buying drinks at the cafeteria," said Azlinda.

Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin