KUCHING: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak has intensified its enforcement efforts across the state, with figures revealing that 61,257 premises were inspected between Jan 1 and May 27 alone.
The sweeping checks resulted in 965 cases being recorded, with total seizure values amounting to RM12,478,402 and compound values of RM228,400.
The cases involved a range of offences under various acts enforced by the ministry.
Within the same period, 547 cases were specifically recorded under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act (AKHAP) 2011, with compound values reaching RM141,800.
KPDN director Matthew Dominic Barin said KPDN does not wait for public complaints before acting.
Officers are deployed to the field every seven working days without fail, he said, adding that while the ministry’s team may be small in number, their presence is felt everywhere.
“If you see KPDN officers everywhere, we may not be many, but we are everywhere,” he said at the Gawai Dayak Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) press conference today.
Traders found in violation of the price control laws face significant penalties under AKHAP 2011.
For the offence of selling controlled goods above the maximum price, individuals may be fined up to RM100,000 or imprisoned for up to three years, or both, or compounded up to RM50,000.
Companies face fines of up to RM500,000 or compounds of up to RM250,000.
For failing to display the mandatory pink price tag, individuals may be fined up to RM10,000 or compounded up to RM5,000, while companies face fines of up to RM20,000 or compounds of up to RM10,000.
Members of the public who spot any violations are encouraged to file complaints with KPDN through the following channels such as WhatsApp at 019-848 8000; E-mail at e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my, call centre at 1-800-886-800 and mobile app through Ez ADU KPDN.
