Watch out for expired goods in CNY hampers, says Sabah consumer group

Chan looking at a hamper being sold at a store in Kota Kinabalu.

KOTA KINABALU: A consumer group here is urging the public to be on guard not just against businesses raising prices to take advantage of the Chinese New Year, but also for expired goods being packed into festive hampers.

Sabah West Coast Smart Consumer Association president David Chan said he spotted some stores selling hampers containing items that had gone beyond their expiration dates.

“I urge traders not to sell expired items or food,” he said after making his rounds at marketplaces here on Friday (Feb 2).

“At the same time, they should also not take advantage of the coming festivities by indiscriminately increasing the prices of items, especially essential goods, above the permitted ceiling.

“Anyone who sees such things can report to the authorities, particularly the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry,” he added.

Chan also advised consumers to be prudent with their purchases by comparing prices, for one.

“The people have a right to buy from stores that sell things they want at a reasonable price.

“This is a way to teach other traders that they must not exploit the situation,” he said.

He added that raising prices of controlled goods such as eggs, sugar and flour, among others, was a compoundable offence.

Chan also reminded store owners to display prices clearly for the benefit of their customers.