PETALING JAYA: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) is investigating an overcharging incident involving a foreigner for a haircut.
Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub had instructed the ministry's officers to go to the ground and look into the allegations.
He also assured that the ministry would take stern action under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 (AKHAP 2011) against the shop if the allegations were true.
"When I learned about a foreign tourist who had to pay RM120 for a haircut, I immediately ordered the officers to investigate.
"If it's true, let's ensure those involved will be strictly dealt with. Not only did they charge excessively, but the action tarnished Malaysia's good name.
"As a tourist destination, we should offer the best services and reasonable prices," he said at the handover of Bakul Rahmah by Grab Malaysia to its drivers and riders today.
Yesterday, several media outlets reported that a 135-second video clip showing a couple believed to be from England engaged in a war of words with a foreign barber.
In the video, the couple claimed they were charged RM120 for a haircut. They then asked some locals who said the price for a haircut should be at most RM50.
Following that, the barber explained that the price was only for the locals as the group was not taxed like foreign tourists.
Commenting further, Salahuddin reminded all traders to comply with AKHAP 2011 by ensuring that every service offered is at reasonable fees, whether to locals or foreigners.
"Don't overcharge or take the opportunity to make excessive profits, or we will have to use AKHAP against any trader we consider to be acting excessively," he said.