THE Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) carried out a field visit to inspect and monitor the supply of essential goods in supermarkets and premises in Kuching, ensuring that the prices of essential items remain reasonable ahead of the upcoming Ramadan and Hari Raya Puasa celebrations.
Deputy Minister Fuziah Salleh, in statement, said ‘Ops Kita Gempur Sarawak’ Edition is to control the price hike of goods and service charges, especially during festive seasons.
The Ministry is proactively conducting inspections under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act (AKHAP 2011) and other relevant legislation to ensure that traders do not exploit consumers with unfair price increases not in line with anti-profiteering laws.
“Operations are carried out before, during, and after the festive season,” she said.
She explained the inspections covered all levels of the supply chain, including importers, wholesalers, and retailers, focusing on Ramadan essentials such as Yellow Onions, Red Onions (imported), Garlic (China), Old Ginger (imported), Tomatoes, and Imported Potatoes (China).
A total of two (2) Written Notices (NB) were issued to importers, wholesalers, and retailers to gather information on the goods' prices, costs, and current selling prices for three (3) SKUs—Yellow Onions (Holland), Red Onions (India), and Garlic—to ensure no party takes undue advantage by inflating prices, she said today.
Inspections were also conducted to ensure compliance with price labeling and the use of verified weighing and measuring tools at the importer, wholesaler, and retailer levels.
Clear price tags must be displayed, and the tools used for trade must still be within the valid calibration period, in line with the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 and the Weights and Measures Act 1972, the deputy minister said.
“The Ministry is serious and will not compromise on any violations of the law that disrupt the supply of essential goods and the well-being of the people. Strict action will be taken against any parties involved in fraudulent activities,” she said.
The Madani Government always prioritises the Whole Nation Approach, an inclusive initiative involving the government, enforcement agencies, and consumers. Consumers, being closest to traders, can quickly detect and report any irregularities that may affect them, she added. – February 22, 2025
