BASIC GOODS SUPPLY IN PERAK SUFFICIENT AHEAD OF CHINESE NEW YEAR – EXCO

IPOH, Feb 13 (Bernama) -- The Perak state government has assured that the supply of essential goods across the state is sufficient ahead of the Chinese New Year celebration, helping to stabilise prices and prevent sharp increases.

State Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, Consumer Affairs and New Villages Committee chairman Woo Kah Leong said the Perak branch of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is monitoring supplies to ensure food items remain stable and that there are no shortages of key necessities.

He said KPDN monitoring found that supplies of basic items such as chicken, eggs and other food products are not only adequate but, in some cases, exceed demand during the festive season.

“The stable supply situation is important as it reduces the room for certain parties to raise prices excessively.

“As long as supply is sufficient, there is little room for sharp price hikes, and this remains a key factor in ensuring price stability throughout the festive season,” he told reporters after launching the 2026 Chinese New Year Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) and conducting a walkabout at the Ipoh Central Market here today.

Woo said the government will implement the SHMMP in conjunction with Chinese New Year, covering 15 types of controlled items, and advised traders not to take advantage of festive demand by imposing unreasonable price increases.

“KPDN Perak, through its network of branches, conducts daily inspections statewide to ensure the supply chain remains smooth and that any shortages are addressed immediately.

“Enforcement remains in place, but we emphasise advisory and reminders. However, if there are persistent public complaints, KPDN will have no choice but to take action,” he said.

On the supply of white pomfret, a popular choice among the Chinese community, Woo said some traders have opted not to sell the fish due to its higher price, but it remains available at major supermarkets at the government-controlled price.

“Fish supply is generally sufficient and not an issue. If an item is unavailable at one location, consumers can consider alternatives elsewhere. The government does not intend to compel traders to sell goods at prices that would result in losses, but will allow market mechanisms to operate as long as consumers are not exploited,” he added.

-- BERNAMA