Kota Kinabalu: The 2023 Deepavali Festive Seasons Maximum Price Control Scheme (SHMMP) was launched here, Thursday, with the prices of eight items listed under the control of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
Effective until next Wednesday (Nov 15), the scheme was launched by Sabah KPDN Director, Georgie Abas, at Emart Lintas Jaya Supermarket.
“The implementation of SHMMP Deepavali 2023 is effective for seven days, namely, three days before, one day during and three days after the festival.
“This scheme is implemented as a measure to stabilise the prices of goods throughout the Deepavali festive season and ensure the availability of supply in the market,” said Georgie.
The price-controlled items comprise imported boneless mutton (RM32), tomatoes (RM8), red chili (RM19), small Indian red onions (excluding rose) (RM8), large imported shallots (RM5.50).
Australian dal beans (RM6), coconut (maximum price RM1.80 at wholesale level) and grated coconut (maximum price RM7 at retail level).
There are small differences between the prices for the aforementioned goods sold in the East and West coasts.
Georgie said the scheme also aims to inform the people about the Government’s concern and serious measures in dealing with the cost of living and the increase in the prices of goods.
“Throughout the implementation of SHMMP Deepavali 2023, it is an obligation for traders to sell the price-controlled goods not exceeding the maximum set price.
“Place pink price tags on the price controlled items to distinguish them from others, display price tags on all items sold, ensure sufficient supply of goods in the market and use approved weights and scales,” he said.
Georgie warned that KPDN officers would be inspecting public, farmers and supermarkets every day as a measure to stabilise the prices of goods throughout the 2023 Deepavali festival.
“A total of 3,521 premises throughout Sabah have been inspected under the SHMMP for Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa and Kaamatan festivals this year.
“It detected four offences under the Price Control and Anti-Profit Act (AKHAP) 2011, with a compound value of RM700 and seizures worth RM684.60,” Georgie said.
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