HEALTH (We Can 'Rice' Up Against Tainted Food)

            Important criteria that make good entrepreneurs include their ability to set targets, take risks, follow principles, create creative strategies and practise good business etiquette. However, some businessmen have their own definition, understanding and interpretation of these criteria, which make a business not mutually beneficial to dealers and customers, as the businessmen focus more on profit and personal satisfaction. 

             These people use dirty tricks to make money, as in the case of tainted rice suspected to be produced by an Asian country. The rice is believed to be made of plastic and dangerous to health. The situation, fortunately, is under control but that should not make us nonchalant customers who depend on the authorities to take care of our safety. It goes without saying that everyone has an individual responsibility.

            When it comes to goods and foods, especially those that are imported, it is important for the items to go through strict procedures before they are distributed and ready to be sold to consumers. This process will ensure that customers are happy with the products, be they local or international.

            However, as wise customers, we should act immediately if we are suspicious about the quality of products we buy. Chances are, the products are not safe. When this happens, customers should lodge complaints with the authorities. This should be immediately as our report may save lives.

            The authorities should provide the public with guidelines and procedures for lodging complaints, should there be something wrong with the products. This initiative is necessary to avoid panic. Campaigns can be carried out to inform people about health awareness and customers' rights. This way, the public can make wise decisions when buying products, and they would know what to do if they face problems after buying them.

            Regardless of who we are – young or old, rich or poor, male or female – we need to be wise when buying food, because our health deserves our care.   

Courtesy of New Sunday Times,

14 June 2015