MIRI: Face mask manufacturers in West Malaysia have been instructed to increase their production to ensure there is no shortage in the domestic market, especially in Sarawak.
Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Chong Chien Jen said his ministry is monitoring the supply of face masks in the local market.
Met by reporters after attending a brief meeting with Pujut DAP members at Miri DAP headquarters on Friday, Chong said demand for face masks has increased in recent days, therefore the ministry wants to make sure they are readily available.
He also called on public to lodge a report if they come across anyone selling face masks beyond the gazetted prices.
The face mask is a regulated price item under the Price Control (Controlled Prices) Order 2009 and the Price Control (Maximum Pricing) (No.2) Order 2009.
“Lodge a report to us (the ministry) so that we can deploy our enforcement officers to carry out inspection immediately,” he said.
The maximum price of face masks is RM25 per box of 50 pieces (wholesaler price), while the three-layer head and ear loop type sells at 80 sen a piece.
“Traders or retailers found to have breached the directive is liable to a fine of up to RM100,000 or maximum three years’ jail or both, or pay a compound of RM500,000,” he said.
