KUALA LUMPUR: Eight essential items, including imported large red onions and Australian dhall, have been listed under the Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) for Deepavali 2024, effective for seven days from Oct 28 to Nov 3.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali announced that the other items on the list are small red onions and rose onions (from India), red chilies, imported bone-in mutton, whole coconuts (maximum price applicable at the wholesale level only), grated coconut (maximum price applicable at the retail level only), and tomatoes.
"The list of items, maximum price levels, and implementation period were determined based on factors such as demand and supply, current costs, weather, wage rates, and other considerations," he said at a press conference announcing the SHMMP for Deepavali 2024.
He explained that the pricing was set in consultation with strategic partners of the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, including the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, relevant agencies, and industry stakeholders.
"The maximum prices set for the SHMMP for Deepavali 2024 at both the wholesale and retail levels can be checked on the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry’s website at www.kpdn.gov.my," he added.
Armizan stated that the ministry's enforcement officers will be deployed nationwide to monitor the prices of goods throughout the scheme's implementation.
"We also encourage public cooperation through reports, complaints, and feedback regarding compliance with the scheme, particularly through the complaints platform provided by the ministry.
"We hope for the collaboration of all parties to ensure that the maximum price scheme achieves its targeted objectives," he said.
In another development, Armizan noted that the RM700mil allocation to expand cost of living programmes, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the recent tabling of Budget 2025, has opened pathways for initiatives addressing price movements.
Armizan, who is also the Papar MP, stated that the ministry is planning a new approach, including a special intervention programme in the form of the Madani Sales Programme during the festive seasons.
Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, will be celebrated by Hindus nationwide next Thursday, October 31. – Bernama
