KUCHING: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak Branch has intensified enforcement efforts through Ops Pantau from March 2-31.
Earlier on Wednesday, Director of KPDN Sarawak, Matthew Dominic Barin, together with Sarawak Chief Enforcement Officer, Peter J. Berinus Agang, conducted a walkabout at Stutong Ramadan Bazaar, here to monitor the operation.
The inspection was also joined by the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department and the Public Health and Licensing Division of Kuching South City Council (MBKS).
“Ops Pantau 2025 focuses on ensuring the availability of subsidised controlled goods, pricing monitoring, discount sales, weighing and measuring devices, counterfeit or pirated goods, halal compliance, the Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) for Hari Raya Puasa, and the sale of essential festive items,” he said during the walkabout at the Stutong Ramadan Bazaar.
According to Matthew, the operation is carried out systematically and targets high-traffic locations such as Ramadan and Aidilfitri bazaars, public markets, supermarkets, retail shops, and even online sales platforms.
“Since the operation began on March 2, KPDN Sarawak’s Enforcement Section has inspected 1,139 premises across the state, resulting in four enforcement cases – three under the Weights and Measures Act 1972 and one under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011, with a total compound value of RM700,” he said.
Between January 1 and March 7, the department inspected 32,631 premises, leading to 432 cases, with an estimated seizure value of RM2,663,532.23 and compounds totaling RM76,400.
“KPDN Sarawak is committed to enhancing enforcement presence in consumer hotspots to ensure a safe and ethical business environment during the fasting month,” he said.
The ministry urged traders to adhere to legal regulations, uphold ethical business practices, and avoid excessive profiteering during Ramadan.
The public is encouraged to report any price manipulation or unethical practice through the following complaint channels, WhatsApp: 019-848 8000 / 019-279 4317, Online Portal: e-aduan.kdn.gov.my, Call Center: 1-800-886-800 and Ez ADU KPDN Mobile App.
