‘RM2,150 in compounds due to violation of Gawai price scheme’

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MIRI : The Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry has so far issued compounds amounting to RM2,150 through 15 cases reported under this year’s ‘Gawai Dayak Price Control Scheme, which kicked off on Sunday.

According to the ministry’s state enforcement chief, Abdul Hafidz A Rahim, the cases came following inspection on 12,695 premises across the state since May 24.

“Of the total, 14 cases were under the Price Control and Profiteering Act 2011, while one was under the Measuring Act 1972,” he told reporters after launching the festive season price control scheme at Emart Hypermarket here yesterday, which was witnessed by Assistant Minister of Communications Datuk Lee Kim Shin.

Touching on the ministry statistics on enforcement across the state since January this year, Abdul Hafidz said to date, it had recorded 54 cases including the afore-mentioned 15.

“All these cases involved seized goods valued at RM373,967.77 and compounds totalling RM5,450,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lee said this year’s price control scheme would run for 10 days, from May 24 to June 2 – an increase from previous exercises.

“It used to be seven days. This year, a total of 14 items have been listed under this scheme.

“Compared to previous years, there have been changes in items listed under the scheme,” he noted, citing local and imported beef as being one that had been taken out of the list due to low demand.

New items, Lee said, included chicken wings, Beijing cabbage, Indian shallots and garlic from China.

The assistant minister, who is also Senadin assemblyman, reminded traders to sell controlled items at prices not more than the ceiling set by the government.

“These items must also be attached with pink price tags, enabling buyers to identify them.

“Traders must abide by the regulations. Stern action will be taken against those who fail to comply,” Lee said, warning the traders that the authorities would not compromise those who broke the rules.