The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has intensified its "Op Pantau" enforcement activities today to curb price manipulation and ensure the supply of essential goods remains stable. Enforcement officers are being deployed to wet markets, supermarkets, and hypermarkets nationwide to monitor the prices of items such as chicken, eggs, and cooking oil. This proactive measure aims to protect consumers from unscrupulous traders who might take advantage of the current high demand.
Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali stated that the ministry will not hesitate to take stern action under the Price Control and Anti Profiteering Act 2011 against those found guilty of hoarding or excessive price hikes. He also urged consumers to be the eyes and ears of the ministry by reporting any suspicious pricing activities through the KPDN e-aduan portal or WhatsApp hotline. The operation also focuses on ensuring that traders use calibrated weighing scales and display clear price tags for all items.
The ministry is also working closely with local wholesalers to ensure that the supply chain remains uninterrupted. Early reports from today's inspections show that most traders are complying with the regulations, though several warnings were issued for minor labeling infractions. As the cost of living remains a top concern for many families, these continuous enforcement efforts are seen as a vital shield against artificial inflation in the domestic market.