KUANTAN: The newly introduced Compliant Tourism Hotspot Zone (ZTPP) in Pahang aims to protect consumers and encourage traders to follow regulations at popular tourist destinations.
The initiative by the Pahang Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry was launched at Menara Kuantan 188 today and will be expanded to tourist hotspots in Cameron Highlands before being extended to other parts of the state in stages.
Pahang Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Sim Chon Siang said the ZTPP focuses on three key areas: consumer protection, trader empowerment and compliance.
He said the initiative would help prevent a repeat of an incident in Cameron Highlands last year, when a consumer claimed that strawberries sold as 1kg for RM25 weighed only 700g.
"This initiative aims to prevent visitors from being exploited through unfair price manipulation or hidden charges when visiting popular tourist sites. Businesses operating within the tourism zone must strictly comply with the law, including displaying price labels and using certified weighing scales.
"When visitors step into these tourism zones, we want them to feel secure when purchasing food or souvenirs without fearing that they may be cheated. A transparent and conducive trading environment will strengthen visitors' confidence," he told reporters after launching the Pahang-level ZTPP at Menara Kuantan 188, the second-tallest tower in Malaysia, today.
Sim said Kuantan 188 had been identified as one of the state's top tourist destinations where the initiative was expected to contribute to a more positive experience for tourists and consumers.
"Prices of food and beverages, tickets and souvenirs are all clearly displayed at Menara Kuantan 188. When there are events at the tower, participating traders will also adhere to the initiative," he said.
"Businesses operating within these tourism hotspots cannot simply hike the prices of goods and services and must comply with relevant trade laws. Enforcement officers from the ministry will conduct random checks, while consumers who feel they have been cheated can lodge an official report," he said.
Source - NST
