KUALA LUMPUR: It is unfair to solely blame local authorities over the poor quality of food sold at bazaars, says a Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry's (KPDN) official.

Commenting on viral cases of poorly prepared food, KPDN's Enforcement Division Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Section director Zubir Hamsa said while the ministry would hold sellers accountable and safeguard consumer interests, sellers also need to be responsible.

"There needs to be a greater sense of accountability among traders," he said, adding the primary responsibility for the quality of food lies with the sellers.

"They are the ones making (the food) and making money, so it is only right for them to ensure honesty," Zubir said on NST's Beyond the Headlines.

In general, he said, the majority of bazaar traders adhere to laws and courteously conduct their business transactions.

However, it cannot be denied that some traders try to take advantage of consumers, he said.

To date, he said a total of 20,854 premises were inspected nationwide under Ops Pantau which ran between Mar 12 to Mar 23.

"From this total, 84 cases were recorded for various offenses with a seizure value of RM414,319.07."

Zubir said consumers must also play their part in reporting unethical practices to the authorities using the right channel.

Previously, the ministry's enforcement director-general Datuk Azman Adam urged the public to direct complaints to the authorities directly instead of posting on social media.

He said the authorities faced difficulties in investigating previously shared cases because the involved traders had disposed of most of the evidence.

Meanwhile, Zubir said he was grateful to consumer associations for their role in identifying profiteering activities.

Without the NGOs, he said, KPDN would be facing difficulties in monitoring and addressing concerns related to bazaars.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/1031922/traders-cant-escape-culpability-over-quality-food-says-kpdn-man-nsttv