Labuan consumers to enjoy reduced goods prices next month

The 50 per cent discount in ferry rates over the next one month will translate into consumers in Labuan, feeling a 'lesser burden', in as far as the price of essential goods are concerned.

Member of Parliament Datuk Yussof Mahal said the implementation of discounted rates since Jan 1, applied to travellers and commercial vehicles - with the exception of private vehicle owners - and that it would greatly help reduce the price of goods brought into the island.

"Since the discount rate has been given, we believe it will also bring about reduction in the price of goods as the transportation charges have reduced," he told a press conference here Monday.

Yussof said the government spent millions in subsidy to lessen the burden of consumers in the country, including in Labuan, where the people had been faced with escalating prices of goods due to double transportation charges.

The discount rate, given to consumers who commute daily by ferry from Labuan to Sabah and Sarawak, also includes ferry fares for commercial vehicles transporting essential items to Labuan.