CAP calls for stricter price transparency enforcement

GEORGE TOWN - The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has called on the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) to strictly enforce Section 8(1) of the Price Control Act 1946 (Amendment 1973), which requires traders to display price tags on their goods.

Its president Mohideen Abdul Kader said this follows CAP's survey across the state, which found widespread non-compliance among traders in displaying price tags, including at food stalls, wet markets, night markets, restaurants and retail shops.

"The main offence is the absence of visible price tags at food and beverage stalls, followed by restaurants either not updating prices or providing misleading information to consumers.

"The lack of transparent pricing often leads to consumers being overcharged as they do not have a documented price list to refer to in case of disputes about their bills,” he said in a statement today.

He said the recent increase in diesel prices also has the potential to contribute to higher food costs, making it crucial for consumers to be informed about prices in advance.

According to Mohideen, provisions under the Price Control Act outline the responsibility of sellers to ensure buyers are informed about prices; however, inadequate enforcement has undermined the effectiveness of implementing the law under these provisions.

"In addition, CAP also calls for stricter enforcement and prosecution of all offenders to protect consumer rights and ensure fair trading practices,” he said. - BERNAMA