Hasnol Zam Zam at the reviewing traders’ compliance on the maximum price scheme at Pasar Moden in Section 6. — Bernama photo
SHAH ALAM: The decision to list certain items on the festive season maximum price scheme for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration is done based on current market assessments of those items.
Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs’ secretary general, Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam said, as such, several goods which were listed under the scheme last year, were not included this year.
“Since 2009, we have been monitoring the fluctuations in the prices of certain items like onions, vegetables, fish and others. There is no pressure imposed on the prices of these goods when their prices keep fluctuating reasonably over a period of time.
“We actually monitor more than 30 types of goods for the maximum price scheme for the upcoming festivity. In fact, we have a list of additional items to keep under price control if necessary to give assurance to the people,” he told reporters after reviewing traders’ compliance on the maximum price scheme at Pasar Moden in Section 6 here yesterday.
He added, the maximum price scheme for the additional items might be enforced anytime during the festive season to protect consumers should there be signs of price increases for those goods.
On Tuesday, the ministry announced 11 controlled items for Aidilfitri for 15 days starting from yesterday until June 3. Meanwhile, 11 items would be listed under the scheme for Pesta Kaamatan and Hari Gawai which would be in force from May 28 until June 3.
These items included eggs, live chicken, standard chicken, super chicken, local and imported beef, coconuts and grated coconut.
On the price of onion, considered the main ingredient for Aidilfitri dishes, which was not included in the scheme, Hasnol Zam Zam said his checks at supermarkets found that onion was being sold at RM1.50 per kg compared to RM6 a kg in the public market.
“The pricing of this product depends on the location and business model of the seller. Large supermarkets usually carry large quantities and have long-term contracts with suppliers, so they can sell at lower prices than the public market.
“So, consumers should consider and choose wisely when buying items of need,” he said. — Bernama