DOHA: The state-run consumer rights’ watchdog has begun explaining the country’s consumer protection law in sign language to the hearing impaired and those who lack the power of speech.
The idea is to make those who cannot hear and speak, aware of their rights as consumers.
As part of an ongoing GCC Consumer Awareness Week, the sign language was used to explain the consumer protection law to the aurally challenged and mute.
The Week kicked off on March 1 at Souq Waqif and will continue until tomorrow.
The hearing impaired and those who lack the power of speech are an important segment of society, so they must be made aware of their rights and duties as consumers, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce
said.
In a press statement, the Ministry which boasts a consumer protection and anti-commercial fraud cell, said yesterday that the Week is attracting a large number of people, among them students.
As part of the Week, on display are replicas — known as counterfeit products — along with originals so that visitors can differentiate between the fake and original.
Lectures on consumer awareness are also being held at the event. Two car dealers organised lectures on after-sales services that explained how fake automobile spare parts could be identified.
Interestingly, a model of a baqala (neighbourhood store) at the event is a major attraction.
The replica of the shop (Al Dukan) has been created to train students and children, especially, on how to shop in the right way.
“The idea is to introduce the younger generation to the culture of responsible shopping and avoid waste,” said the Ministry
release.
Always make a list of what is to be purchased from an outlet and a budget should be allocated, and one should try to stick to the list and the budget.
“Don’t get tempted during shopping and buy things unnecessarily. Buy only those items that you need and have listed,” said the Ministry.
“This will help one check waste and unwanted expenditure.”
First, dry products should be bought and then the frozen items. Always check the validity of a product and avoid canned products that look dirty. “Always demand a bill for the purchase or purchases you have made.”
Storage at home is very important. Food items should be kept separately from non-food products, according to the ministry.
During the lectures, questions-answer sessions were held and participants, including students, asked questions regarding their rights and duties as consumers.
