GEORGE TOWN: The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) said several markets in the state were selling standard chicken way above the ceiling price of RM9.40 per kilogramme.
CAP education officer N.V. Subbarow said they did a survey in several markets on the island today and found that the chicken was not sold at the price set by the government.
"In our survey on five markets in Bayan Baru and George Town, we found that poultry sellers are not selling the chicken at the price set by the government.
"Although a few traders had written the old price on the notice board, they are selling a kilogramme of chicken openly without fear a at M11.00.
"It is clear that they are not bothered about the new ceiling price set by the government.
"Their attitude of indifference and boldness of what the government can do against them is questionable," he said.
As such, Subbarow said the enforcement authorities should take strict action against these errant poultry sellers.
Subbarow also questioned where the chicken had been kept all this while.
"Prior to this, there was a shortage of chicken in the market. Today chicken is stacked like mountains.
"How come there are more chicken now? Where have they gone all the while?" he asked.
As for kampong chicken, they are being sold between RM20 and RM22 per kg.
Meanwhile, Subbarow said apart from chicken, the rise in prices of cooking oil and eggs had also caused distress to many families.
"Therefore, the government should take appropriate measures to ensure that the prices of other essential commodities do not rise again," he added.