KUCHING, Nov 24: Inflation is not something that should be made fun of and played around with, chides Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
The Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP), whose hometown is in the rural areas of Kapit, he said issues like the rising prices of goods should never be taken lightly.
“As someone who comes from the rural areas of Kapit Sarawak, issues like this are very close to my heart and not something that can be played around with.
“I and all KPDNHEP staff take the issues of rising prices of goods that put pressure on the people very seriously,” he wrote in a social media post today.
He was rebuking a viral image on social media depicting his mugshot and words which read: “Consumers urged to eat duck while government studies chicken price increase”.
“I vehemently deny the statement as in the viral picture. I have never issued such a statement that is insensitive and seemingly making fun of people who are in trouble,” he stressed.
Nanta, who is also Kapit MP, urged the public not to worsen the already tough situation where the economy is tight by spreading slanderous news.
He said the issue of increasing prices of goods is not only plaguing Malaysia, but the world as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak which crippled global economic activity.
“As a minister, of course, I always try to find a solution to such issues.
“However, these efforts will take some time as they involve various ministries and other agencies before the Government can provide a solution that benefits all parties involved,” he said. — DayakDaily
