Lima'23: Domestic Trade Ministry to monitor prices at three locations in Langkawi

ALOR SETAR: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has identified three areas for monitoring prices of goods and services during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 (Lima'23) which will take place from May 23-27.

Kedah Domestic Trade director Affendi Rajini Kanth said monitoring through "Ops 516" was being carried out at business outlets around Chenang Beach, Kuah and Padang Matsirat, which began on Tuesday (May 16) yesterday until Lima'23 ends.

"We mobilised 40 officers who were divided into six duty teams according to the schedule. This operation includes supplies, businesses (like car rentals), hotels, weighing and services...they (ministry officials) will reside in Langkawi to check supplies and sales.

"We have stationed our officers in these three areas all the time, they don’t wear uniforms and are everywhere like ordinary people,” he said at the Kedah Domestic Trade and Cost of Living National Assembly here Wednesday (May 17).

Therefore, he reminded industry players and service operators not to raise prices arbitrarily to ensure the comfort of visitors on the resort island during the prestigious exhibition.

According to him, strict action will be imposed on traders who default including under the Price Control Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 and the Supply Control Act 1961.

"Action will vary depending on the offence, but it will have a punitive effect on traders and entrepreneurs who take advantage during Lima'23,” he said. - Bernama