LABUAN — The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) in Labuan has seized cooking oil worth RM82 after detecting a mini-market selling one-kilogramme bottles of pure palm cooking oil at RM8.20 each, exceeding the government-set maximum price of RM6.90.
KPDN Labuan director Junaidah Arbain said the offence was uncovered through a test purchase conducted by enforcement officers at a mini-market in Labuan town last night, following a public complaint about prices charged at the premises.
“The test purchase confirmed that the cooking oil was being sold RM1.30 above the stipulated maximum price. Following the discovery, KPDN Labuan seized the products involved, together with transaction evidence, to facilitate further investigations.
“The case is being investigated under Section 11 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 (Act 723) for the suspected offence of selling controlled goods above the prescribed maximum price,” she said in a statement today.
She said individuals found guilty of the offence may face a fine of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both, while corporations may be fined up to RM500,000.
The offence may also be compounded in accordance with the provisions of the law.
Reach More Customers.
Promote your business with Labuan Times.
Advertise Now →
Junaidah said enforcement operations would be intensified to ensure traders complied with government-mandated maximum prices, particularly for essential goods.
“Traders must remain updated on current price controls and refrain from taking advantage of consumers by charging prices above the permitted limits.
“Consumers are also urged to remain vigilant and lodge complaints with KPDN if they encounter controlled goods being sold above the prescribed maximum prices.
“Information such as the name and location of the premises, type of goods, selling price and proof of transaction, where available, would assist the ministry in conducting investigations and taking appropriate action,” she said.
Members of the public can channel complaints through KPDN’s official complaint channels.
