60 cases of trade offences in Tawau
TAWAU: As of April 22, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Tawau Branch has conducted inspections on over 2,562 premises with action taken in a total of 60 cases against traders who committed offences under various regulations.
KPDNHEP Tawau Chief District Enforcement Officer (KPPD), Aslani Dabi said a total of 45 cases involved compounds totalling of RM6,950, while 13 cases are still under investigation. Goods valued at a total of RM54,237.45 were seized.
Earlier yesterday, Aslani together with the Deputy Chief District Enforcement Officer, Yapp Kon Fatt and the KPDNHEP Tawau Branch enforcement team conducted a survey and inspection at a supermarket at Datuk Chung Thien Vun Road, in conjunction with the implementation of the Hari Raya Puasa Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP HRP 2021) which will last for 30 days from April 21 to May 20.
He said a total of 38 premises have been inspected since the implementation of SHMMP HRP 2021 which began on April 21, and the results of the inspection found that all premises complied with the maximum price set at all levels.
Earlier, a survey was also conducted at among producers and wholesalers of poultry and chicken eggs in Mile 9, Ranggu and Mile 10, Kampung Membalua. Discussions were also held with the main producers and wholesalers of chicken and chicken eggs to identify the real cause of the price increase.
In early April, KPDNHEP office detected the increase in chicken prices through monitoring by the Price Monitoring Officer.
Accordingly, a total of 6 Notices Verification of Goods and Services Information have been issued to Manufacturers and retailers to obtain information on selling price and cost.
He said if KPDNHEP Tawau finds that there is an element of profiteering, action can be taken under Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.
Meanwhile, he said for localities under the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO), KPDNHEP will also conduct inspections to prevent traders from taking advantage of the consumers involved and to ensure that the supply of food and necessities is always adequate.
He warned that strict action will be taken against traders who fail to comply with the rules under the maximum price scheme this festive season.