SIBU: A total of 14 types of goods have been listed under Festive Seasons Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) for the Christmas 2024 celebration for Sibu, Kanowit and Selangau districts, effective today (Dec 23) till Dec 27.
This was stated by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sibu branch head Kelyn Bolhassan @ Haliward in a statement.
The list of price-controlled items include ‘old live’ chicken, chicken wings, bone-in imported mutton, imported round cabbages (Indonesia and China, excluding Beijing, tomato, green bengal pepper, imported potato (China), red chilies, imported large red onion, large yellow onion, carrot, live pork (farm only), belly pork as well as meat and fat pork.
“The move is necessary to curb unreasonable price hikes by traders, and strict action will be taken against traders who fail to comply with the regulations under this scheme,” he cautioned.
He warned that traders found increasing the prices of these controlled items will be issued notices under Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.
Traders found guilty may be fined up to RM100,000 or imprisoned not exceeding three years or both or compounded up to RM50,000. Companies found guilty can be fined up to RM500,000 or compounded up to RM250,000.
Traders who fail to put up a pink price tag for price-controlled items will also be fined up to RM10,000 or compounded up to RM5,000 for individuals and for companies up to RM20,000 fine or compounded up to RM10,000.
Kelyn said the scheme will be a success if all parties play their respective roles.
He advised the consumers that if there are traders who are found not to comply with the law regarding the scheme can channel information or complaints to the ministry.
They can access the Ez ADU app or visit the e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my website or email e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my or contact the KPDN Sibu branch office at 084-335622 or WhatsApp 019-2794317.