Kuala lumpur: Wet World Pedas The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is focusing on tourist hotspots nationwide through the implementation of the PATUH Tourist Focus Zone Programme (ZTPP) to ensure traders comply with the law, particularly on pricing and business practices.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, KPDN Deputy Director-General of Enforcement (Prevention) Aris Mamat stated that 16 tourist hotspots nationwide have been chosen for the ZTPP pilot programme this year. These include Wet World Pedas, along with tourist destinations in Melaka, Johor, and other states. The initiative's aim is to cultivate an ethical business culture, safeguarding tourists from unfair pricing, short-weighting, and other practices that may damage the reputation of tourist destinations.

Aris emphasized the importance of fair pricing, noting that exorbitant charges can lead to negative word-of-mouth, which could harm the tourist destination's image. As part of the programme, KPDN is collaborating with local authorities, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), and state tourism agencies to ensure responsible business conduct in tourist areas.

The ministry has received multiple complaints about high prices at tourist spots, leading to investigations and requests for traders to justify any price increases. Aris mentioned that if traders cannot substantiate these increases, it may be considered profiteering, which is against KPDN laws. He urged traders to set prices reasonably and in line with the value of their products or services.

Moreover, the PATUH programme has been expanded to include 75 markets nationwide, including three public markets in Negeri Sembilan: Ampangan Market, Lukut Market, and Kuala Pilah Market, involving 162 traders. Participating traders have been provided with PATUH price tags to promote transparent pricing, and self-service price-checking and weighing stations have been installed at each market.

Aris also called on consumers to assist by reporting instances of non-compliance by traders. Reports can be made via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, the KPDN EZ ADU mobile application, the 1-800-886-800 call centre, the e-Aduan portal, or by scanning the complaint QR code.