THERE has been no hike in the prices of controlled goods especially red chilli and onions with the advent of Chinese New Year.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi said the ministry had not received any report on the increase in the prices of these items in the last one week.

“Currently, the price of red chilli is at a reasonable level, no price hikes. It actually went down. The price of onions has stabilised. Last week we met wholesalers importing onions from India. They assured us that the supply of onions in the next several weeks is adequate,” he said.

He said this after visiting the Kuchai Lama NSK Wholesale Market in conjunction with the implementation of the 2021 Chinese New Year Festive Season Maximum Price Control Scheme today.

On discussions to allow business sectors yet to open to resume operations, Nanta said a favourable announcement might be made soon but reminded on strict compliance with the standard operating procedure. 

Meanwhile, in a statement, Nanta gave his assurance that the supply of chicken is also adequate although a major poultry factory in the country was ordered closed recently.

Subsequently, he said the ministry had ordered a chicken processing factory in Pedas, Negri Sembilan to help ensure the continuity of supply.

“Output remains stable with other processing factories still functioning as normal and can meet the needs of the market.

“Based on records, there have not been complaints on chicken shortage nationwide,” he said.

On Saturday, a chicken processing factory in Serkam, Malacca was ordered shut after 604 workers were found Covid-19 positive following a screening on February 1.

Commenting further, Nanta said said the move was taken following inspection and scrutiny on the factory’s operations to decide on follow up strategies and actions to ensure chicken supply is unaffected.

He said the ministry would continuously engage the chicken and egg industry players to supervise  operations from time to time to ensure stable supply.

Nevertheless, he reminded them to comply with the SOP at all times, screen workers and report to the authorities if there are Covid-19 infections among them.

In addition, Nanta also urged producers, suppliers and retailers not to raise chicken prices.

Information on price hikes can be channelled through the [email protected] portal, call centre 1800-886-800, Enforcement Directive Centre 03-8882 6088/6245, or via e-mail [email protected], Ez ADU application or WhatsApp to 019-279 4317. – Bernama, February 8, 2021.