North America Edition
The increase in prices of some vegetables in Penang is attributed to bad weather and the lack of supply from Cameron Highlands. According to Penang Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry director Mohd Ridzuan Ab Ghapar, they have checked with the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) on the reasons behind the increase in prices.
"FAMA told us that the increase in prices is due to the weather, particularly the unpredictable rain which resulted in the supply of vegetables in the market to dwindle. The weather also resulted in vegetables from farmers in Cameron Highlands, Pahang, becoming spoilt," he said today.
Earlier today, the Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) urged the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry and FAMA to take immediate steps to reduce the prices of vegetables, which had shot up in recent days.
According to Kuala Lumpur Vegetable Wholesalers Association president Wong Keng Fatt, the main cause for the troubles is the north-east monsoon, as it has caused floods and landslides in Cameron Highlands and other vegetable-growing areas, affecting crop growth and supply.
The prices of cauliflower, beans, chillies and several other vegetables have risen by about 200% over the last two weeks.
Source: nst.com.my
