TAWAU: The state government wants the relevant authorities and the body that monitors prices of goods in Sabah to investigate if there is still a hike in the price of of goods in the state despite implementation of the zero per cent goods and services tax (GST).
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said the check was necessary to address the problem of price manipulation in a controlled and prompt manner.
“The six per cent GST is gone, if there is an increase in prices, it must be investigated.
“We ask that existing agencies such as the State Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism Office, which has enforcement officers, to assist in the matter,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after attending an Aidilfitri Open House hosted by Tawau General Hospital deputy director Dr Azman Ibrahim here yesterday.
In another development, Mohd Shafie said members of the state cabinet should go to the ground to know the needs of the people.
“Do not forget the people, I do not want them (ministers) to be at the office every month, every week. They have to go down to meet the people.
“They should not just listen to the proposal (for example) for roads. Investigate whether the road is needed, investigate whether there is enough medicines, they must go and check, do not just obtain information through Whatsapp,” he said.
The heads of departments, he said, should also go to the ground to understand the people and their needs.
Mohd Shafie also said he would conduct surprise visits to various areas in Sabah.
