FOOD PRICE RISE: (April 25) Prices of many essential foodstuff have gone up gradually over the last few months, causing concern among consumers that the cost of living may shoot up if the authorities do not act to stop the trend. The increase in the price of foodstuff is of great concern because it makes up 33.8% of the consumer price index, according to the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry.
ACTION ON PRICES: (April 26) The Cabinet, concerned about reports of rising prices of several food items, directed the relevant authorities to monitor the situation closely. Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shafie warned that his enforcement officers would carry out spot checks and routine monitoring of price tags on food items.