SIBU : 120kg overpriced sugar at RM1.80 per kilo seized

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism here recently seized 120kg sugar from a vendor for selling the price-controlled item beyond its ceiling price

Sibu branch chief Balraj Singh revealed this yesterday, saying the trader had priced the sugar at RM1.90 per kg – 10 sen higher than the ceiling price of RM1.80 per kg.

He said his ministry had conducted a raid following a tip-off from a complainant.

From November last year until March, the ministry has taken action against two wholesalers and seven retailers for pricing sugar above the government approved price.

“There was no issuance of warning letter or reminder as this trader had contravened the Price Control Act 1946,” he told reporters after an inspection at the Sibu Express Wharf Terminal, adding that this was the first case for May.

The case has been referred to ministry headquarters for further action.

An offender could be fined not exceeding RM15,000 or sentenced to two years’ jail or both.

Meanwhile, over 30 officers accompanied Balraj and Sibu Resident Sim Kok Kee for a spot check to ensure express boat operators did not hike their fares.

The enforcement team was also at the Sibu Central Market earlier to ensure traders did not raise prices of essential items and that pink price tags were clearly displayed.

Balraj warned traders against marking-up prices to take advantage of the Gawai Dayak.

He said consumers these days are better informed, adding that his office would be open during Gawai Dayak to receive complaints.

“We have enforcement officers on stand-by to take down complaints and act on them speedily,” he said.

He urged the public to call his office on 084-335622 or 084-329202 if they come across any hike in prices of essential items or other related issues.

The Price Control Scheme for 12 controlled items will run until June 2.