THREE types of frozen fish and long beans are among six essential items that will be added to the price control list for the coming festive season, said Saifuddin Nasution Ismail today.

The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs minister said the price control will cover Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Kaamatan and Hari Gawai.

The six new items are frozen fish – kembung, selar and selayang, long beans, groundnuts and dried chillies.

“The scheme for Hari Raya, Kaamatan and Hari Gawai is to halt price hikes for essential goods during the festive season.

“The maximum prices for suppliers and retailers were set to ensure they will appropriately benefit both consumers and traders,” said Saifuddin in a press conference in Putrajaya today.

There are 27 items in total on the list for Hari Raya Aidilfitri this year, compared with last year’s 21, and 14 and 13 for Kaamatan and Hari Gawai.

The scheme for Hari Raya Aidilfitri will last from May 21 to June 19.

The scheme for Kaamatan will take place from May 23 to June 5, and while May 25 to June 7 for Hari Gawai.

“Traders who violate the scheme will be penalised under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011,” said Saifuddin.

Individuals found violating the Act are liable to a fine of RM100,000, or no more than three years’ jail, or a compound of up to RM50,000.

Companies can be fined up to RM500,000 or have to pay a compound of up to RM250,000.

“The ministry is working together with the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry to monitor and ensure supplies are adequate and prices are appropriate.

“Ministry officials will be stationed at shopping areas to hold inspections.

“I would like to remind traders, retailers and suppliers not to hike prices after the scheme is over. The scheme will work as long as all the parties involved play their parts responsibly.” – May 15, 2019.