Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said the government is considering listing masks as a controlled item to prevent suppliers from inflating the price.

NONE He said the government is aware that the price has increased tremendously in tandem with demand due to the Influenza A(H1N1) outbreak.

"If the price is raised from 40 sen to RM5, that is daylight robbery. If the price is increased from 30 sen to 60 sen, it is still acceptable," he told reporters in Bukit Mertajam.

Muhyiddin said if masks come under controlled items, retailers must be licensed to sell such items. Under the Price Control Act 1946, action can be taken against suppliers who raised prices.

"Those who wish to sell the item must apply for a licence. (When) the outbreak is under control, they can return their licence," he said.

h1n1 flu malaysia school children students wearing mask 260609 06 Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai who was with Muhyiddin, welcomed the proposal, as the country faces a major task in containing the outbreak.

"Masks are important to control the spread of the disease. Those with symptoms must wear the mask," said Liow.

Liow added that the Health Ministry would work with the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry to implement the proposal quickly.

- Bernama