COMPLIANCE SUCCESS
It stands at 98pc based on checks at 417,492 premises since May last year, says Nanta
THE retail and distribution trade sectors recorded a 98 per cent SOP compliance rate throughout the MCO. The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry says the number of compounds issued is ‘very low’ thanks to commitment and effective enforcement.
THE retail and distribution sectors recorded a standard operating procedure (SOP) compliance rate of 98 per cent throughout the Movement Control Order.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said this rate was based on inspections of 417,492 premises since May 13 last year.
He said up to March 9, 169 premises had been issued compounds, 89 is- sued warnings and 7,746 given advice.
“SOP implementation in subsectors of the business sectors under the ministry, such as wholesale, retail and distribution, has been a success.
“The number of compounds issued to premises that ministry officers have checked is very low,” he said at a virtual press conference in conjunction with Setahun Malaysia Prihatin yesterday.
He attributed the success to the commitment and teamwork of enforcement officers and staff under his ministry, who worked very closely with people on the ground for feedback and monitoring.
Nanta said the ministry had conducted monthly roundtable sessions with stakeholders, including consumer groups and non-governmental organisations, to get their views and recommendations on improving the SOP.
“We implement the suggestions from industry players that are reasonable, making the SOP much easier for them to follow.
“The ministry is not here to impose regulations, but to act as facilitators who are attentive to the needs of our stakeholders and the consumers.”
On food security, Nanta said the ministry, Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry and International Trade and Industry Ministry worked together to ensure supply of goods was adequate during the pandemic.
He said the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry worked to ensure the security of the distribution sector.
“We have an effective team of enforcement officers to oversee the supply and prices of necessities, and we have legal provisions to take action against unscrupulous traders.”
On the ministry’s human capital, Nanta said it was vital to provide enforcement officers with upskilling and reskilling, equipping them with updated knowledge on the sophistication of the Internet.
“As more businesses operate online, fraudulent sellers look to e-commerce platforms to trick consumers. If we don’t provide officers with the right skill, we will not be able to monitor and take action against such people.”
During the interview, Nanta explained the rationale behind allowing goldsmiths and jewellery shops to operate during the pandemic.
He said while many people were shocked by the decision, the ministry realised that these businesses needed to remain open not just for business continuity, but also for employee retention and to preserve the services they provide to the public.
“Gold itself is not an essential item, but the business around gold is essential to keep alive.
“We looked at the businesses, the number of employees and considered the people who may need the services of goldsmiths and jewellery stores when they want to pawn valuables for cash.”