Domestic Trade Ministry admits cannot solve issue of price hikes on its own

KUALA LUMPUR – The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry admitted that it is unable to provide a solution to the issue of rising food prices if there is no cooperation from other ministries and the public as a whole.

The admittance came from Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who said that this is because the matter cannot be handled by his ministry alone

“We cannot comprehensively solve this problem on our own as it is a complex issue that requires the attention of various other ministries. 

“Nevertheless, the ministry is working on lightening the burden shouldered by consumers because of the recent price hikes,” Nanta said during a televised dialogue hosted by Astro Awani today. 

Nanta further stated that the ministry has taken the initiative to conduct discussions with industry players in order to ensure the well-being of all parties is protected. 

“Taking care of consumers cannot come at the cost of affecting business owners. As such, the ministry is taking into consideration all parties that are part of the economic chain,” he said. 

Fellow panellist Saravanan Thambirajah, who is Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) chief executive, also questioned the minister on the role of third-party agents in price hikes. 

“There are local farmers who claim that the increase of prices is not because of them, but instead can be attributed to agents. Is the ministry aware of the role played by agents?” Saravanan queried. 

In response, Nanta urged industry players and the general public to file a report directly with the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry if they encounter instances of unjust conduct by such parties.

“Fomca might not have the power of a ministry, but you do have a duty as an organisation. If you have been made aware of wrongdoings committed by parties, send us a report and we will address the matter,” Nanta said, afterwards calling on the public to also submit reports if they come across exorbitant prices on daily essentials.

Also present as a panellist in the discussion was Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd managing director Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin, who pointed out that proper analysis of the increase in vegetable costs will aid in understanding the price hikes. 

“For imported vegetables, it is unfair to blame the increase in cost on the ministry as it is out of their hands if production costs are on the rise in their countries of origin.

“If the vegetable is from Cameron Highlands, then we must take note of recent floods in the area, which have caused a disruption in supply. 

“Now that the floods have been managed, prices should return to normal within one or two weeks,” Ameer said, adding that a shortage of labour is also a factor that will inadvertently affect the prices of goods. – The Vibes, December 2, 2021