KUCHING: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak has taken action following a viral allegation that RON95 petrol was suspected to be mixed with diesel or water at a petrol station in Kota Samarahan.
KPDN Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin said enforcement officers conducted an investigation into the complaint at about 2.30pm on Dec 24 after it went viral on social media.
He said the operation involved four enforcement officers who inspected a petrol station in the Kota Samarahan area following a complaint posted on a local Facebook page.
“An enquiry paper was opened under Section 5(1)(b) of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 for an alleged offence under Section 6(1)(d) of the same Act, relating to the description and contents of goods.
“Prompt action was taken to ensure compliance with existing regulations and to protect consumer rights,” he said in a statement.
Under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, traders found guilty of selling false or misleading goods may face fines or imprisonment.
For corporate bodies, offenders may be fined up to RM250,000, with repeat offences carrying fines of up to RM500,000.
Individuals may be fined up to RM100,000 or jailed for up to three years, or both. Repeat offences carry a maximum fine of RM250,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
KPDN Sarawak also welcomed public cooperation in reporting suspected violations and reminded distributors and traders to comply with all laws and regulations in force.
Members of the public with information or complaints related to business misconduct may contact KPDN via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, email e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my, call the hotline at 1-800-886-800, or through the Ez ADU KPDN mobile application.
