PUTRAJAYA – A minister today expressed his concern over the lack of standard operating procedure (SOP) compliance at the Ramadan bazaar in Precinct 3 here after witnessing it for himself during the launch of his ministry’s programme today.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who arrived at the Ramadan bazaar about 6pm to launch Op Pantau, said he was dissatisfied by the low level of compliance by many visitors at the bazaar.
“I just arrived here but it seems the area is already crowded. There are people waiting to enter (bazaar, but) it is very crowded and it looks like the SOPs are not being complied with. I am not happy but we hope after this, more will adhere to the SOPs,” he said at the site.
Earlier, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin had visited the Ramadan bazaar about 5pm to check on traders and the public’s adherence to SOPs, as well as to buy food.
However, at that time, there were less people at the bazaar.
On Op Pantau, Nanta said it aimed at inspecting and monitoring the price and supply of goods during Ramadan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
“It will be implemented in a systematic and focused manner throughout the country, with focus on locations such as Ramadan bazaars, public and wet markets, hypermarkets and grocery stores throughout the festive season,” he said.
Op Pantau will also focus on cheap sales, sale of counterfeit goods, implementation of the festive season maximum price scheme and compliance with movement control order SOPs, he said.
It is also aimed at ensuring the people get food supplies and daily necessities easily and at affordable prices.
On reports of a sharp increase in chicken prices, Nanta said the ministry found there has been a slight increase in prices but added that the situation is still under control. – Bernama, April 14, 2021
