Toll Discounts and Festive Price Controls to Ease Public Burden for Chinese New Year, Says Fahmi
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian government will introduce toll discounts and enforce the Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations to help ease financial pressure on the public.
Communications Minister and Madani Government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil said the decision reflects the Cabinet’s commitment to safeguarding consumer welfare during periods of high spending and travel activity.
He said details on the toll discounts, including eligible vehicle categories and rebate rates, will be announced soon by the Kementerian Kerja Raya Malaysia.
The initiative, he added, is aimed at reducing travel costs for Malaysians returning to their hometowns or visiting relatives during the festive season.
At the same time, Fahmi said Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Armizan Mohd Ali had informed the Cabinet that the SHMMP would be enforced for nine days, from February 13 to 21.
Under the scheme, 16 essential items will be placed under price control to maintain market stability and prevent unjustified price increases.
Fahmi noted that the measure is particularly important for protecting consumers from sharp price hikes on food products and daily necessities that see strong demand during festive periods.
He added that the government is seeking to balance consumer protection with fair business practices to ensure sustainable economic activity.
Enforcement efforts will be stepped up by the Kementerian Perdagangan Dalam Negeri dan Kos Sara Hidup to ensure traders comply with the regulations.
With Chinese New Year falling on February 17, Fahmi advised motorists to plan their journeys early, as traffic volume on major highways is expected to rise significantly.
He said the combination of toll discounts and festive price controls demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that Malaysians can celebrate the festive season in a more affordable and comfortable environment.
-wilayah.com.my
