BUKIT MERTAJAM – There has been a 50% increase in purchase of household items in Penang since word got out that the National Security Council (NSC) would reinstate a movement control order (MCO).
State Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Department director Mohd Ridzuan An Ghapar said that despite the increase there is no panic buying of goods, unlike when the first MCO was imposed in March last year.
“The 50% increase of goods bought by the consumers is a trend, and not panic buying,” he said.
Mohd Ridzuan said this after visiting the Aeon Hypermarket at Alma near here today.
He said there was a rush to buy household items at Bayan Baru on Saturday. However the situation did not spiral out of control.
“I think the consumers are wise enough now after the first MCO as they believe there is sufficient food, especially essential items, to face the current MCO,” he said.
“The department is monitoring the consumer trend of buying and the supply of items in the state, especially at the major hypermarkets,” he said.
He also warned traders not to hoard consumer items and increase the prices during the MCO.
“The department will not hesitate to take action against traders who hoard the goods and raise prices of goods,” Mohd Ridzuan added.
He assured that there is sufficient sugar, cooking oil, flour, rice, eggs, bread and chicken during the 14-day MCO at 12.01am tomorrow and the public need not worry about shortages. – The Vibes, January 12, 2021
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