SANDAKAN – All retailers have to adhere to the ceiling retail price of imported white rice set at RM31 per 10kg, following the federal government’s decision to provide a subsidy of RM950 per metric tonne to East Malaysia, according to Sandakan Kawalselia Padi dan Beras (KPB).
Branch chief Mohamad Saiful Nizam said he heard concerns from local retailers, especially those who have bought imported white rice at a higher price and are now required to sell their stocks at a lower price.
However, he advised retailers to adhere to the ceiling price and that KPB is going to take stern action, including revoking their licences, if they are found to have disregarded the regulation.
“So far, all wholesalers and retailers (inspected) are adhering to the new price. We will continue to monitor and check the prices here with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
“We advise the locals not to panic buy because this is a set retail price and stocks are sufficient.
“The public is advised to lodge reports with us if they know of retailers who do not adhere to the ceiling price,” he said at a press conference here after inspecting a wholesaler and a supermarket today.
Also present was Sandakan KPDN chief Azdy Zukkry John, who assured the locals that the rice supply in the district is sufficient.
He advised the people to not scramble to buy rice like what happened during the Jualan Rahmah at Bataras Hypermarket Sandakan here recently.
“We were made to understand that this new price (subsidy) is here to stay. No more old prices (of imported white rice), so people do not need to fight for it.”
He also asked people to use proper channels to lodge complaints on prices and refrain from taking to social media. – October 5, 2023