KUANTAN: Growing concerns over the Covid-19 outbreak has led to a dire shortage of face masks, while antibacterial hand sanitisers are selling like hotcakes in the state capital, here.
The demand for both items saw a sudden increase after the state recorded its first Covid-19 case on March 10.
Checks at several premises here including supermarkets, pharmacies and convenience stores revealed many premises have run out of surgical face masks while hand sanitisers were running low.
Pahang Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry enforcement chief Ahmad Fitri Ali said the ministry was doing the necessary to ensure sufficient supply.
He said surgical mask manufacturers were trying to meet the growing demands but could not set an exact time frame on item delivery.
“The face masks and hand sanitisers are selling fast and pharmacies cannot cater to those who want to buy in bulk. Some pharmacies are only selling face masks in small quantities (one or two pieces) to ensure everyone can purchase it.
“Pharmacies are warned not to take the opportunity to hike up the prices of surgical mask and hand sanitisers. The public can lodge a report to us if they notice traders taking advantage of the situation,” Ahmad Fitri said.
Meanwhile, a pharmacist said most premises had already placed orders to restock face masks but the suppliers have yet to complete their delivery, with some claiming the orders would only arrive as early as mid-April.
“Currently, face masks and hand sanitisers are high in demand so they are displayed at the front counters. But most premises have already run out of stock.
“At some pharmacies, customers are told to provide their contact details so that once the items arrive, they will be among the first to purchase it,” she said, adding the government had to immediately look into measures to tackle the shortage issue.
Yesterday, Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry Minister Datuk Rosol Wahid said the shortage of face masks and hand sanitisers will be raised during the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.