Penang’s KPDN dismisses reports of sharp price increases ahead of Thaipusam and CNY, stating most monitored goods show only minor changes or price drops.
PENANG: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living has assured consumers that essential goods prices in Penang remain stable, dismissing reports of sharp hikes ahead of Thaipusam and Chinese New Year.
State KPDN Director S Jegan said the ministry monitors prices of 41 types of vegetables across 45 public markets, 13 hypermarkets and 18 supermarkets through its ‘Price Catcher’ initiative.
“Analysis shows that most items, such as tomatoes, ginger, lady’s fingers, cauliflower, long beans, cabbage and carrots, show only minor changes and remain within a reasonable price range,” he said in a statement.
He was commenting on concerns raised by the Penang Hindu Association regarding rising food prices ahead of the festive season.
PHA president Datuk P Murugiah reportedly said a survey found prices for 15 key staples had risen between 14% and 100% in the past month.
Jegan refuted these claims, stating the average retail price of tomatoes only rose from RM6.56 per kg in December to RM7.28 in January.
Ginger prices held steady at around RM9.80 per kg, while prices for lady’s fingers and cauliflower had actually fallen significantly.
Regarding claims of up to 100% increases for large mangoes, brinjals and moringa, he clarified these items are not monitored daily.
Nonetheless, current checks found their prices remain within the normal market range.
He assured the public that the state KPDN Enforcement Division would ramp up daily inspections at all public markets and supermarkets.
Traders found violating laws such as the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 would face stern action.
He urged consumers to use the ‘Price Catcher’ mobile app to compare prices before shopping.
