Wednesday October 3, 2012

‘Reduce sugar intake’

REPORTS by MAZWIN NIK ANIS, RAHIMY RAHIM, YVONNE LIM and TASHNY SUKUMARAN

THE public have been urged to use the reduction in the subsidy on sugar prices as an opportunity to reduce their sugar intake.

“With the high statistics of Malaysians with diabetes, it would be beneficial for us all to reduce our sugar intake,” Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Deputy Ministry Datuk Tan Lian Hoe told reporters at the Parliament lobby.

Tan also reminded food traders and retailers not to take advantage of the reduced subsidy on sugar prices, or face being fined up to RM500,000.

She urged traders to keep prices reasonable despite the increase by absorbing the extra cost.

“Those found taking advantage of the reduced subsidy by charging exorbitant prices will be penalised under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2010,” said Tan.

Businesses that fail to comply with the Act can be fined up to RM500,000 with a compound of up to RM250,000, while individuals can be fined up to RM100,000 or jailed for up to two years or both, with a compound of up to RM50,000.

She urged the public to be the ministry’s “eyes and ears” and report non-compliant traders.

The Prime Minister announced in Budget 2013 that there will be a 20 sen per kilo reduction of the Government’s subsidy on sugar prices, which will raise the retail cost up to RM2.50 per kg.

News

Wednesday October 3, 2012

‘Reduce sugar intake’

REPORTS by MAZWIN NIK ANIS, RAHIMY RAHIM, YVONNE LIM and TASHNY SUKUMARAN