(Kuching, 23rd) Sarawak Domestic Trade Bureau Chief Matthew Dominic stated that the Christmas Price Control Scheme (SHMMP) will be implemented from today for five days, until the 27th.
He said that the items controlled under the maximum price control plan for Christmas include live old chicken (only in Sarawak) and live pigs (only at farms).
In addition, he revealed that for Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan, the maximum price control plan also covers chicken wings, pork belly, as well as pork and fat, commonly known as "three-layer meat."
According to Matthew, other items controlled under the national maximum price control plan include bone-in lamb, cabbages imported from Indonesia and China (excluding Beijing cabbage), carrots, tomatoes, red chili peppers, green peppers, imported large red onions, and large yellow onions and potatoes imported from China.
"The 2024 Christmas Price Control Scheme will be implemented through the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011. Merchants or the public can check the maximum prices set for wholesale and retail levels on the bureau's website for the 2024 Christmas Price Control Scheme."
"We have been working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to ensure sufficient supply of controlled items during this implementation period."
He stated this at a press conference after the launch ceremony of the Christmas Price Control Scheme held today at the Li Baba Supermarket in Serikin New Semawang.
He added that the bureau has deployed 214 enforcement officers and 97 price monitoring officers at strategic locations from Kuching to Lawas to monitor compliance and conduct inspections at public markets, wet markets, and supermarkets.
He explained that this monitoring measure will also follow up on consumer complaints, aiming to ensure that any non-compliance by merchants is handled in accordance with legal provisions.
"We will increase enforcement and price monitoring personnel to create a safe and ethical business and shopping environment, leading to a win-win situation for merchants and consumers."