Najib Razak’s Quinoa Quirk: A Saudi‑Stir Amidst Rice & Rebellion
What Went Down
The Malaysian Prime Minister made headlines not for policy moves but for his pantry choice. During a Q&A at a local hospital, Najib announced he’d ditched rice for quinoa, claiming the exotic grain is “better” because it’s protein‑rich and low on carbs.
Why It Blew Up
- Economic Wind‑Rough – Malaysians are feeling the pinch of higher living costs. While Najib talks about dieting, he’s juggling corruption allegations over a supposedly “stolen” state fund.
- Lacked Local Roots – Queens of the 18th century’s “let them eat cake” echoed as voters see the PM’s food choice as out‑of‑touch elitism.
- Quinoa in Malaysia? – Most Malaysians have never even seen quinoa on supermarket shelves; few high‑end shops sell it for a price that’s a blistering shocker compared to staple rice.
Public Reaction
Opposition leaders lined up for a snide jab, calling the move “aristocratic” while policing the pricey grain that’s basically a novelty in the Malay archipelago. Historically‑seasoned legislator Lim Kit Siang even admitted, “I literally didn’t know quinoa existed before today.”
Consistent Cannibalism
Najib isn’t the first prawns‑and‑pannies‑cooking PM to get spat on for culinary commentary. In 2014 he was gagged after noting water spinach’s price fell in his tenure.
Take‑home Line
In a nation where rice is the bread of life, the PM’s penchant for quinoa feels like a buffet‑bath for the elite. As elections loom, the question remains: will his diet a go‑of cut a bigger portion out of public trust?
