SIBU: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has listed 18 goods under the Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) for Hari Raya.
The list of price-controlled items includes yellow onion, imported large red onion, white onion (China), curly dry chili, red chili, imported ginger, long beans, peanuts and imported round cabbage (Indonesia and China excluding Beijing).
Also included are green mustard, cucumbers, tomatoes, imported potatoes (China), coconuts (maximum price at wholesale level only), shredded coconuts (maximum price at retail level only), imported beef, Chub mackerels including Mabung Fish and Selayang Fish.
KPDN Sibu branch head Kelyn Bohlassan Haliward said the scheme will come into effect from Apr 5 to 19.
“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 said in a statement yesterday (Apr 3).
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 for a term 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 place 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 RM20,000 or a RM10,000 compound for companies.
Kelyn said the public who wish to channel any information or complaints on unethical activities can use the Ez ADU app or visit the e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my website or email e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my or call the KPDN Sibu office at 084-335622 or WhatsApp 019-2794317.
