KUCHING: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak has taken action following a viral complaint involving suspected contamination of RON95 petrol with diesel or water at a fuel station in the Samarahan area.
KPDN Sarawak said the action was taken after enforcement officers conducted an investigation at about 2.30pm on Dec 24, following a viral report shared on the Facebook page “Sarawak Roads Update”.
A team of four KPDN enforcement officers carried out an inspection at the fuel station concerned as part of the investigation into the public complaint.
An enquiry paper has been opened under Section 5(1)(b) of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 for an alleged offence under Section 6(1)(d), involving false trade descriptions relating to goods or parts thereof.
KPDN Sarawak said prompt action was taken against the station found to have breached regulations to ensure consumer rights are protected.
Under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, offenders may face strict penalties. For corporate bodies, a fine of up to RM250,000 may be imposed, rising to a maximum of RM500,000 for second or subsequent offences.
For non-corporate offenders, penalties include a fine of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both. For repeat offences, the fine may increase to RM250,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
KPDN Sarawak said it welcomes complaints from the public and other agencies as part of its efforts to safeguard consumer rights.
Traders and distributors are reminded to comply with existing laws and regulations to avoid enforcement action.
The ministry also urged members of the public to continue acting as its “eyes and ears” by reporting any suspected misconduct or unethical business practices involving traders and distributors through official complaint channels.
