Three broiler farms in Manjung were investigated after being suspected of selling live broilers above the controlled price.
The operation was conducted by the Manjung Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) on Tuesday and Wednesday this week.
Director of KPDNHEP Perak, Saifullizan Kamarul Zaman said that preliminary investigation found the farmers selling broilers for RM6.05 to RM6.50 per kilogramme, compared to the controlled price of RM5.60 per kilogramme.
According to him, the selling price of live chicken at the farm level must not exceed the Maximum Chicken Pricing Scheme that is being implemented from February 5 to June 5 this year.
“It is found that these three farmers are registered under the Perak State Department of Veterinary Services and operate around Manjung district.
“The supply of broilers are distributed around Perak, Pulau Pinang, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur,” he said in a statement yesterday.
According to Saifullizan, three investigation papers have been opened against the farmers under Section 11 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act of 2011 for selling broilers above the maximum price set by the government.
“Companies could receive a fine of RM500,000 up to RM1 million if found guilty for the offense.
“On the other hand, individual offenders may face a fine of RM100,000, imprisonment, or both if found guilty,” he said.
Meanwhile, Saifullizan assured that the supply of basic necessities for consumers all around Manjung district is still sufficient and there are no complaints of shortage.
KPDNHEP Perak also reminds all traders to be ethical and that stern action will be taken on those who fail to comply with all regulations set by the ministry.
Rosli Mansor
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