KUALA LUMPUR – Members of the public have been encouraged to lodge reports with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry if they face issues when attempting to purchase controlled items such as sugar.
Deputy Minister Fuziah Salleh took to Facebook to address netizens’ concerns that were originally posted in a group known as Warga Kuantan Official.
A Facebook user known as Zaha Jay said he could only find premium refined sugar that is priced at RM4.60 per kg.
However, the comment section has a mixed reaction, with some agreeing that supply was low in their respective areas, while others said traders will have a tough time getting the item.
Previously, the government assured that it would continue to price coarse sugar at RM2.85 per kg and refined sugar at RM2.95 per kg.
It also gave assurances that domestic supply of both items remained ample.
Sugar manufacturers have to seek approval from the ministry before introducing new products.
In May, the government allowed MSM Malaysia Holdings Bhd and Central Sugars Refinery Sdn Bhd (CSR) to sell other refined sugar products that were not under the list of controlled items.
In a statement on August 24, sugar manufacturer MSM Malaysia recorded a lower loss before tax of RM14 million for the second quarter, an improvement compared to loss before tax of RM35 million in the same quarter in 2022.
Previously, the company attributed the loss mainly to the price-controlled wholesale segment due to prolonged high input costs, without subsidy.
“Due to external cost pressures, production cost has increased by 12% driven by 5% higher USD rate and 6% more expensive raw sugar prices.
“In addition, fuel cost, which accounts for 40% of the refining cost, has been impacted by a 49% increase in gas rate, resulting in 28% higher refining cost for the period.” – September 3, 2023