PENAMPANG: The Government will develop a centralised Price and Supply Repository System to monitor price trends and prevent manipulative practices in the market, said Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.
He said the system, to be introduced under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), will provide a transparent data platform to detect abnormal price movements and support enforcement action against profiteering and cartel-like behaviour.
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“This is a proactive step toward ensuring fairer market practices and greater price transparency across the supply chain, especially for essential goods,” he told reporters after officiating the Seminar Kenegaraan Malaysia Madani: Rancakkan Madani Sabah at ITTC Penampang.
According to Armizan, the repository system will consolidate real-time information on pricing, supply volumes, and distribution to assist both consumers and regulators in making informed decisions.
“Through this system, enforcement agencies will be able to act more swiftly and decisively using data-driven evidence. It’s a game-changer in combating unethical manipulation and protecting consumer interests,” he said.
He added that the system will be developed through inter-ministerial cooperation and partnerships with industry players, including suppliers, retailers, and logistics operators.
Armizan said the effort aligns with the Government’s long-term plan to stabilise the cost of living by tackling the root causes of inflation- not only through subsidies, but by increasing supply chain efficiency and accountability.
“The repository system is not just a database. It is a tool to break the monopoly of information held by certain parties who manipulate prices for profit,” he said.
Enforcement under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 and the Competition Act 2010 will also be strengthened using the data from the repository, which is expected to help uncover price-fixing activities, stock hoarding, and artificial shortages.
Armizan emphasised that the initiative reflects the Madani Government’s commitment to protecting consumers while creating s healthier market environment that encourages genuine competition.
“This is part of our wider agenda under 13RMP to raise the rakyat’s purchasing power and build a resilient domestic economy,” he said.
