KPDN Sarawak issues four notices over school essentials prices

MIRI (Jan 6): The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak has issued four notices to several business premises across the state as of Jan 5, in conjunction with the Jualan Rahmah Madani programme and Ops Kesan 5.0 Back to School.

KPDN Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin said the notices involved 17 types of school essentials, including uniforms and school supplies.

“KPDN will be carrying out investigations into the four notices that have been issued,” he said when met by the media after a walkabout at a supermarket along Jalan Pujut on Tuesday.

He added that any trader found to have arbitrarily increased prices may face action under Section 14(1) of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011. Upon conviction, an individual may be fined up to RM100,000 or jailed for a term not exceeding three years, or both.

“For a second or subsequent offence, the fine may reach RM250,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, or both. Companies may be fined up to RM500,000, and up to RM1 million for a second or subsequent offence,” he said.

On the Jualan Rahmah ‘Back to School’ programme, Matthew said that it has been implemented statewide since Dec 1, offering discounts of between 10 and 30 per cent on school uniforms and supplies.

According to him, the programme is aimed at easing the financial burden on parents while helping students obtain school necessities at more affordable prices.

“At this premises, we found more than 56 items, including uniforms and stationery, being sold at discounted prices,” he said.

He advised business operators not to take excessive profits, but instead to conduct their businesses responsibly and foster a win-win situation between traders and consumers.

KPDN also urged consumers to be more prudent in making their purchases.

“Any complaints can be lodged with KPDN at any of its branches, or via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, or by email to [email protected],” he added.