KUCHING: Discussions will be held on collaboration between the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) and the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, particularly in monitoring prices of goods at wet markets.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said that such collaboration depends on regulations and whether enforcement authority can be delegated to local councils.
“For example with the smoking ban, the Ministry of Health has delegated the authority for the enforcement in the local council to compound people.
“But all these are laws. However, we can discuss this further because we always want to work together to protect public interests. That is what Sarawak is about,” he said.
He said this during a press conference after a walkabout in conjunction with the 2025 Chinese New Year Festive Season Maximum Price Control Scheme (SHMMP) at E-mart Boulevard here today.
Dr Sim also highlighted the efforts of KPDN Sarawak, which has conducted over 12,000 inspections from Jan 1 to Jan 23 this year.
“Everyone has been cooperative and helpful. This reflects the spirit of Sarawak. We don’t fight, we help each other,” he added.
He also expressed his gratitude to KPDN Sarawak for their tireless work despite limited resources, with only 118 staff to cover the entire state.
He acknowledged the unique challenges Sarawak faces due to its vast size and the long distances between areas.
“KPDN has been doing an excellent job in ensuring price control and protecting consumer interests across Sarawak. We will continue to work together to ensure a harmonious and prosperous Sarawak,” he said.
