Traders in Penang are warned not to raise the prices of water containers and bottled mineral water unfairly as people prepare for the planned water supply disruption from Jan 10 to 14, according to State Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry deputy director A. Mogan.
Mogan stressed that those who violate the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 may face legal action. He also mentioned that enforcement officers are conducting daily inspections and monitoring at various retail outlets in five districts in Penang, including markets, grocery stores, supermarkets, and mini-markets.
He added that outlets selling water containers and mineral water are being closely monitored since last week to ensure fair pricing. According to Mogan, both items are still available at reasonable prices and their supply is sufficient to meet consumer needs during the water supply disruption.
Consumers are also reminded to be smart about their purchases by comparing prices before buying, and to avoid panic buying, Mogan said. The water supply disruption is expected to affect 590,000 consumers in Penang, including non-domestic consumers, due to two major valve replacement works at the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant, along with ancillary work projects at 22 locations statewide, according to the Penang Water Supply Corporation.
The water supply disruption is scheduled to begin at 6 am on Jan 10 and end at 6 am on Jan 14, stated Bernama.
