KOTA KINABALU: Traders are reminded not to arbitrarily raise the prices of controlled goods beyond the maximum price set by the government or face legal action.
The President of the National Consumer Foundation of Malaysia (YPNM), Sabah Branch, David Chan, said that his organisation would not hesitate to take action against any trader found to be practicing unethical behaviour in business, especially during the Christmas festive season.
“Approaching this festive season, traders should not arbitrarily raise the prices of essential goods and should not take advantage of or violate existing laws throughout Sabah.”
“Traders must also put price tags on all items for sale for the convenience of consumers when shopping,” he said in a statement on Friday.
David said that buyers have the right to make choices by shopping at stores that sell goods at non-burdensome prices to give a warning to other traders.
“We remind traders to sell controlled price goods not exceeding the maximum price set by the government.”
“This includes placing special price tags on controlled price items to differentiate them from other goods,” said David.
Meanwhile, his market traders reminded them to always maintain cleanliness in food handling as well as waste and leftover management.
“Night market traders are also urged to maintain the quality of food and the cleanliness of their premises while trading throughout this month.”
“In addition to maintaining the cleanliness of business premises and the quality of food, traders also need to pay attention to other aspects such as dress code, displaying price tags, and not obstructing traffic while conducting business,” explained David.
According to him, he reminded consumers to always take precautions when choosing food sold at night markets.
“This step is aimed at preventing undesirable incidents such as food poisoning.”
“The public can assist KPDNHEP Sabah by reporting any violations using the hotline number 088-484368 (KPDNHEP Kota Kinabalu), WhatsApp 019-2794317 (Consumer Complaints), or email e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my,” added David.
