Study on stabilisation of prices in East Malaysia to take 6 months

 

Domestic trade and cost of living minister Armizan Mohd Ali (second from left) checking on stocks of sugar at a godown in Kota Kinabalu earlier this month. (Bernama pic)

PAPAR: A study on stabilising prices of goods in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan will take six months.

The report will be presented at the stabilisation committee meeting in August this year, domestic trade and cost of living minister Armizan Mohd Ali said.

He said Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak had been tasked with conducting the study.

Both universities had submitted their initial proposal papers on April 19.

Armizan said the study to find out why some essential goods cost more in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan compared to Peninsular Malaysia is being conducted in collaboration with the national action council on cost of living.

“This study will identify the current situation and issues regarding the price differences of essential goods in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.

“It will examine price dynamics and supply chains,” Armizan told reporters after an Aidilfitri celebration organised by the Papar parliamentary and Kawang state constituencies today. It was also attended by chief minister Hajiji Noor.

Armizan said the study would involve five main areas in Sabah and Labuan, including Kudat, the west coast, the interior, Sandakan, Tawau and Labuan.

In Sarawak, it will involve three northern regions, namely Miri, Bintulu, Limbang, four regions in Sibu, Sarikei, Mukah and Kapit, as well as five regions in western Sarawak, namely Kuching, Kota Samarahan, Serian, Sri Aman and Betong.

“This study is important as a long-term measure to formulate strategies and action plans to stabilise the prices of selected essential goods.

“The findings of the study will be shared with the governments of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as the federal territories department,” he said, adding that this is crucial as price issues are closely linked to food security and supply, both domestic and imported.

He hoped the findings would help the state governments plan better land use for agriculture, livestock and overall food security.

“Having local food sources can reduce dependence on food from the peninsula and lead to lower logistics costs.” - FMT