Seberang jaya: The government's initiative to broadcast the 2026 FIFA World Cup through Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and Unifi TV has been well received and is helping to reduce costs borne by restaurant operators and the public, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He shared that the initiative has brought significant savings, as conveyed by the Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi noted that one trader mentioned it was the first time in over two decades that he could watch World Cup matches without any charge. The matches are accessible through RTM, RTMKlik, and Unifi TV, reducing financial burdens on both the public and food premises operators. Fahmi expressed hope that this initiative will attract more viewers and customers to food and beverage establishments.

Fahmi made these remarks to reporters after attending the JiwaSembang Santai Special Edition FIFA World Cup 2026 programme at the Seberang Jaya Public Market food court. Earlier, he watched the first half of the Brazil versus Haiti match with the public and interacted with traders at the market.

The visit provided Fahmi a chance to gather direct feedback on business conditions and challenges faced by traders. "I visited the stalls, met the traders, and gathered information on business conditions and their expectations regarding assistance from the state or federal government," he explained. He plans to convey the inputs received to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

Fahmi also hopes that more ministers, Members of Parliament, and state assemblymen will engage directly with the public and traders to better understand the rising costs stemming from the conflict in West Asia. He remarked on the ongoing impact of the conflict, emphasizing the need for attention to the increasing costs of certain goods.