KUCHING, April 12: As part of the Federal government, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) should do more to ensure that the prices of goods and services are lowered and remain reasonably priced.
Special assistant to Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen, Michael Kong said this in a statement issued today.
“Under the present government, we have seen an astronomical increase in the prices of goods and services. For example, chicken which used to cost RM5.99 per kg just three years ago, now costs RM11 per kg. Likewise, we now see a 500 to 600 per cent increase in airfares for the festive period.
“The economy is doing badly, and many are struggling financially. Moreover, the high prices of food items and airfares for the upcoming festive seasons only compound the problems and stress of the public,” he said.
He added that many Sarawakians are working and studying in Peninsular Malaysia. For the past two years, many have been unable to return to Sarawak to celebrate festive seasons for various reasons.
“While it is easy for leaders to ask the people to plan their trips earlier, it is simply not possible for many because of various reasons.
“Among the reasons would be the uncertainties in travel restrictions imposed by the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) and its frequent changes,” he said.
He said that during Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) time in the Federal government, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs took proactive steps to cap the price of food items at an affordable price.
He also added that the then-Transport Minister, Anthony Loke, engaged with stakeholders to successfully bring down the price of air tickets despite it being the festive season and that the present Federal government should adopt a similar approach.
“In light of the current economic situation and the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Gawai Dayak festive seasons, I strongly urge GPS to step up their efforts and actively take steps to engage their federal partners to ensure the prices of food items and airfares, especially during festive seasons, are kept reasonable.” — DayakDaily
