KUALA LUMPUR – Consumers have been complaining of the sudden spike in chicken prices since Ramadan started, with authorities in several states already taking action against such sellers.
Non-governmental organisations have also urged authorities to intervene in the issue due to its impact on the public.
In JOHOR, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry state branch has issued 26 notices to 20 chicken traders and wholesalers at public markets in Johor Baru, following complaints about price hikes.
State Unity, Trade and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Chong Fat Full said the notices were issued under Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 through inspections since the first day of Ramadan.
In MELAKA, state ministry director Norena Jaafar said two notices have been issued to chicken traders and suppliers in the state.
“They have been given three to five days to produce documents.
“If there are elements of profiteering, they will be issued compounds under Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.
“Consumers need not worry as monitoring will be done daily, and if there are complaints, please inform us immediately.”
Checks at the Melaka Central Market revealed that chicken is being sold at about RM9.50 per kg, causing consumers to complain about the price, which they say is too expensive.
Trader Hamzah Othman, 57, said never in his 30 years experience of selling chickens has he had to sell at such a high price.
However, he added, he has no choice as the suppliers are the ones who set such a steep tag.
“Some suppliers said the hike is due to breeders having to sustain increases in imported fodder prices of up to 40%. This has happened not only here, but everywhere.”
In PENANG, the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) urged authorities to intervene to resolve the increase in chicken prices that coincided with the start of Ramadan.
CAP education officer N.V. Subbarow said the hike has burdened everyone, adding that stern action must be taken against chicken suppliers.
“Previously, chicken was sold at RM7.50 a kg, but now it is sold between RM9 and RM10 per kg, with the excuse that feed costs and other expenses have increased.” – Bernama, April 17, 2021
