KOTA KINABALU: An ongoing crackdown on price hikes on essential goods, especially controlled items, has been extended in Sabah.

       Sabah Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs director Georgie Abas said the price control scheme which was initially enforced between Dec 7 and 31, had been extended until Feb 4.

       "This is in line with the government’s aim to stabilise the cost of goods and ensure the continuous supply of essentials amid the rising cost of living," he said in a statement, Tuesday (Jan 11).

       He said as of Jan 10, a total of 4,277 premises had been inspected statewide, with four premises issued with compounds of RM400 each for failing to display the pink price tag for controlled goods.

       Georgie reminded traders to remain ethical when conducting their businesses and to refrain from selling above ceiling price.

       He said the price of all goods and items must be displayed clearly whereas supply must be consistent.

       He also urged consumers to exercise their rights as customers, spend wisely, and to report to the authorities if there were traders who price their goods exorbitantly.

       "Strict action will be taken against those who break the regulation, be it the manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, or traders," Georgie said.

       He said individual traders found selling controlled goods above ceiling price could be fined up to RM100,000 or jailed up to three years, or both, or issued with a compound of up to RM50,000.

       Companies having breached this regulation can be fined up to RM500,000 or issued with compounds of up to RM250,000.

       Failure to display price of controlled goods on pink tags could cause an individual trader to be fined up to RM10,000 or issued with a RM5,000 compound while companies could be fined up to RM20,000 or issued with compounds of up to RM10,000.

       Individual traders who failed to display the price of items under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 could be fined up to RM50,000 or issued with compounds of up to RM25,000 while companies could be fined not more than RM100,000, or issued with compounds not exceeding RM50,000.

       Complaints on related matters could be made online via e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my, or call centre at 1800 886 800.

       Inquiries could also be made via phone application - Ez ADU - or by contacting the Enforcement Command Centre (ECC) at 03-8882 6245 / 6088, through Whatsapp at 019- 279 4317 or by going to any nearest KPDNHEP offices nearby.