The price control for face masks to protect the public against the spread of Influenza A(H1N1) does not lie within the purview of the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry.

NONE However, its minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, told Bernama that he hoped face mask suppliers would be sympathetic to the nation's plight by not taking advantage of the current situation with a short face mask supply, and would thus not increase the price.

"The ministry has no power over the price of face mask as it is not a controlled item. I sympathise with those who have to wear a face mask and they will have a problem if it is expensive.

"But if they don't wear a face mask, they are exposing themselves to the danger of H1N1 viral infection. So, I hope the suppliers and sellers will not raise the price of face masks as the country is facing the spread of Influenza A(H1N1).

"Traders need to be ethical as it is a responsibility to the community," he said.

Can action be taken?

On Health Minister Liow Tiong Lai's stern warning that action would be taken against opportunistic face mask suppliers if they increase the price, Ismail Sabri said he needed to discuss the matter with Liow.

h1n1 flu malaysia school children students wearing mask 260609 06 As to the fact that many pharmacies had run out of stock of face masks and whether his ministry would monitor the situation, Ismail said he had not been informed of the matter.

"Although domestic trade is our area, but health items like medicine and related products also involve the Health Ministry," he said.

Ismail Sabri said he would also discuss with Liow the shortage of face masks in the market due to the rising number of H1N1 cases.

- Bernama