KUALA BESUT, July 16- The Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Minister said the ministry has not received any complaints on price hikes of essential goods here in the lead up to the Kuala Besut state seat by-election.
He said a survey of several markets in the area showed that traders have not increased prices indiscriminately, especially for whole chicken, as was the case in the cities.
“Maybe city traders blame higher prices on the middlemen. We advise them to report instances of manipulation by such middlemen immediately so that we can take action,” he said after surveying the Kuala Besut wholesale market at Kampung Lampu here today.
He also told the traders to advise the middlemen to refrain from profiteering, especially during times such as Ramadan and festive seasons.
He advised consumers to be smarter in making choices on overpriced items during the festive season.
“We will continue monitoring the situation and take action against traders who flout the law under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011,” he added.
Meanwhile, Bernama found several markets selling whole chicken between RM7 and RM7.50 per kilogramme, above the current ceiling price of RM6.80.
However, this was considered still reasonable compared to major cities where traders charged exorbitant prices citing transport cost and difficulty in obtaining supplies.
– BERNAMA
