JOHOR BARU: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has decided to maintain the ceiling price for chicken and eggs until after Syawal.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said the decision was made after taking into account the use of the basic item in large quantities throughout Ramadan and Syawal.
He said the result of his team's involvement with the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry had also ensured that the supply was sold at the regulated ceiling price.
"We have decided in the cabinet that during Ramadan, Hari Raya, and also after Hari Raya (the ceiling price of chicken and eggs will be maintained).
"This is because the holiday is special and it is not only celebrated for two days but for a month.
"Even during Syawal, there are still people who organise open houses, including departments or agencies, so we make sure the price of supply is sufficient," he said after the launch of the Rahmah Sale at Hwa Tai Supermarket in Pandan here, today.
The government set the current ceiling retail price for standard chicken at RM9.40 per kilogramme, while the retail ceiling price for Grade A eggs at 45 sen per egg, Grade B (43 sen per egg), and Grade C (41 sen per egg) respectively at the peninsula.
While in Langkawi, Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, the maximum price of both items differed according to zone and district.
Salahuddin also said, his ministry would hold more discussions with industry players after Syawal.
If the industry wanted to raise the ceiling price of chicken and egg, they must convince the cabinet, the minister said.
"I have been told that supply will increase. I met one of the industry players who said they were ready (to increase chicken and egg production).
"This is because first, the supply of chicken and eggs has increased due to (high demand) for Ramadan bazaar.
"Secondly, supplies will increase ahead of Hari Raya, and industry players have assured to help and be prepared," he said.