Removal of APs get the nod from all

PETALING JAYA: The government’s decision to revoke the need for approved permits for food imports can lead to the removal of cartels and middlemen, and even help keep prices down.

Consumer groups and business owners have welcomed the move, saying it will prevent the manipulation of food prices and supply.

The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) said it was a good decision and hoped there will now be sufficient food imported from other countries.

“Without the requirement of APs to import food, we can remove cartels or middlemen who manipulate the prices and supply of food products in the market,” said chief executive officer Saravanan Thambirajah.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced yesterday that APs were no longer needed to import food into the country.

Saravanan said the government must now come up with good food security policies that will reduce Malaysia’s reliance on imported food.

“We need to come up with policies that will make us self-sufficient in the future.

“This way, when issues come up in other countries which affect our imported food, we will not feel the pinch.

Saravanan said another issue the government needs to give attention to is that imported food is safe.

“With the removal of the AP requirement, anyone now can import food.

“Therefore, the government must ensure that the food imported into the country is safe for consumption,” he said.

Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin, the managing director of the Mydin hypermarket chain, said the decision would make Malaysia appear as a business-friendly country.

“Hats off to the Prime Minister and the government for this move, which requires a lot of serious willpower.

“Now, all of us can go ahead and import food and the playing field is level.

“The government’s willingness to remove barriers to trade will make Malaysia look good in the eyes of investors,” said Ameer, who is also president of the Bumiputera Retailers Association.

He added that it was better for the government to intervene less in businesses and allow market forces to decide price and supply of goods.

“Whether this move will solve the issue of price and supply, it might not happen immediately.

“Efficient entrepreneurs and businesses will do their best to solve whatever shortages wherever they can, because they are driven,” said Ameer.