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KUALA LUMPUR – Petrol station operators will face stiff penalties for selling RON95 fuel to all foreign-registered vehicles, including motorcycles, warned the Domestic Trade and Consumers Affairs Ministry as the country keeps its borders open.
Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said enforcement teams have been deployed to states near the borders of Singapore and Thailand to monitor and inspect petrol stations.
He added that they have been instructed to take action against those who violate the Control of Supplies Act 1960 and the Control of Supplies Regulations 1974.
Individuals can be fined up to RM1 million, or serve a three-year jail term, or both, while companies can be slapped with up to RM2 million in compounds.
“The public is encouraged to make complaints and report to the ministry if they find any activity involving the misappropriation of subsidised petrol to those not entitled to it,” he said in a statement.
The Kapit MP said this comes following a viral photograph showing a foreign vehicle being filled with subsidised petrol in Malaysia.
Based on complaints, the vehicle in question has a Singaporean plate number, while the customer was seen holding a yellow nozzle normally used to distinguish RON95 fuel.
“The ministry views this matter seriously and I have instructed ministry enforcers to carry out investigations immediately.
“I have also instructed for more aggressive monitoring to be carried out at all petrol stations, especially in states near borders to avoid the selling of subsidised petrol to foreign vehicles.”
Nanta said enforcement will also be ramped up with the launch of Ops Pantau 2022 today.
“Apart from ensuring supplies are adequate and sold at reasonable prices, Ops Pantau will also ensure high compliance among traders following the full reopening of the economic sector and the nation’s borders on Friday.” – The Vibes, April 3, 2022