KOTA KINABALU: A restaurant selling RM50 squid is under investigation for alleged misleading and unclear pricing practices.
The operator has been given a two-day deadline to provide information justifying the pricing to the state Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN).
Sabah Domestic Trade and Cost of Living enforcement head Zulfamy Mat Udi said that authorities had conducted a physical inspection at the reported premises in addition to the investigation.
The premises had displayed price tags for each food and beverage item, including the contentious squid dish.
"However, the ministry advises the premises owner to provide clearer information on the prices for small, medium, and large-sized sweet squids.
"By implementing specific pricing labels, it can avoid confusion among consumers," he said in a statement.
To avoid such issues, the ministry encourages the public to inquire with store owners or check displayed price lists before purchasing food.
Zulfamy also said despite the rising trend of Covid-19 cases in Sabah, face masks, test kits, and hand sanitisers are still available at reasonable and affordable prices.
"We have not received any complaints or reports regarding price hikes and shortages of these items in the market.
"Several inspected pharmacy premises also reported a slight increase in demand for Covid-19 test kits, but the supply is still sufficient."