1. What are the main functions of the Policy and Strategic Planning Division of KPDN?
The Policy and Strategic Planning Division ( BDPS) is responsible in identifying and monitoring current issues at the domestic and international levels which will impact domestic trade and consumerism. It is also involved in formulating appropriate policies based on the current needs.
2. What is KPDN’s role at the international arena?
The Ministry undertakes the responsibility of coordinating and participating in negotiations at the international level on issues concerning free trade agreements, intellectual property rights, competition policy, trade, distribution and consumerism.
3. How does the Ministry cooperate with the private sector?
The cooperation between the Ministry and the private sector is executed through consultations and meetings on specific issues and through the Ministry’s Annnual Consultative Dialogue.
4. What is the Consumer Price Index (CPI)?
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is an indicator to show the percentage of change in prices of goods and services purchased by consumers. The price changes are measured by comparing the cost of goods and services for the designated period.
5. What are the products or services categorised in the measure of CPI?
There are 12 major product groups which includes 460 items as follows:-
- food and non-alcoholic beverages
- alcoholic beverages and tobacco
- clothing and footwear
- housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels
- household furnishings, equipments and maintenance
- health
- transportation
- communication
- recreational and cultural services
- education
- restaurant dan hotel
- miscellaneous goods and services
6. Is it true that “Prices of goods in Malaysia are higher compared to the CPI”?
This is not true because the CPI is an indicator of an increase or a decrease in the prices of goods and services which are generally based on the above items. It cannot be compared with any single type of item or a group of products only.
7. What can be considered as fair trade practices?
In general, fair trade practices refer to a healthy business environment with fair competition, reasonable pricing of goods and services, ethical trade practices, reduction of commercial exploitation, quality goods and services being offered to consumers which will lead to better business satisfaction to both the consumers and traders.