Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hasan Malek said the handbook was to help make consumers aware of GST imposed goods from April this year.
He said the 500 items listed in the handbook were basic necessities selected based on popularity in November last year.
“The prices quoted in this handbook are the average price based on data collected by the ministry and impact of GST percentage based on a study made by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department.”
Hasan was speaking at the launch the Shoppers Guide held in conjunction with the handing over of letters of appointment to 16 Chairman of State Consumer Movement (GPN) and 169 District Consumer Affairs Assistants (PHEPD), here today.
He added that the prices in the handbook would be effective only until June and would be reviewed before a new guidebook was published. The handbook could also be accessed at www.kpdnkk.gov.my starting tomorrow.
“In addition, this guide will also help consumers on how to file complaints if traders raise prices unreasonably. The ministry will conduct investigation and take appropriate action under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 and related laws.”
Hasan said the handbook would be circulated nationwide according to zones namely Central Zone, East Zone, South Zone, North Zone, Sabah and Sarawak Zone.
He urged all GPN and PHEPD to help create greater awareness and intensify consumer education in their constituencies on the change in prices of basic necessities before and after GST.
— BERNAMA
