The Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry is confident the concept of the ‘Kedai Rakyat 1Malaysia’, Malaysia's very own large-scale thrift store or 1Malaysia Shop, can be expanded nationwide, including in the rural areas of Sabah and Sarawak.

Its deputy minister, Rohani Abdul Karim, said the 1Malaysia Shop offered the 1Malaysia brand products at a lower price of up to 40 percent than in other supermarkets or retail outlets.

NONE "The government wants to ensure the people have an option when buying goods and at the 1Malaysia Shop they can choose either the branded products or the 1Malaysia brand which is of the same quality," she told Bernama.

Rohani said those keen with the concept of the 1Malaysia Shop could apply for a permit on the use of the 1Malaysia brand from the Prime Minister's Department.

She said the ministry planned to set up at least another 100 1Malaysia Shop nationwide.

Not branded items

    

She also said that the main problem facing consumers, especially those in the rural areas, was high price of goods, which was normally attributed to high transportation cost.

The consumers, she said, were also burdened with other costs, including for advertisement and packaging.

"The products sold at the 1Malaysia Shop are not branded items, but consumers need not worry because they are of good quality," she added.

On last June 22, Prime Minister Najib Razak opened the first 1Malaysia Shop at Kelana Jaya LRT station.

- Bernama