LABUAN: The Energy Commission (EC), in collaboration with Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SE), today uncovered suspected electricity theft involving three premises here, resulting in estimated losses of RM80,000 to the utility provider.
EC director of Compliance and Enforcement Ismail Zaili said the integrated operation, dubbed ‘Ops Spark 2026’, found that the first premises had been involved in suspected electricity theft for about two years, while the second and third premises were believed to have been involved for about three years.
“The premises were suspected of tampering with electricity meters or electrical equipment, resulting in losses to the utility provider,” he said at a press conference after the operation in the downtown area here today.
He said electricity theft could affect the reliability of electricity supply, cause supply disruptions and pose safety risks to the public.
“The cases will be investigated under Section 37(3) of the Electricity Supply Act 1990 (Act 447),” he said, adding that if convicted, offenders involving domestic premises face a fine of between RM1,000 and RM50,000, or imprisonment for up to one year, or both for a first offence.
For a second or subsequent offence, they face a fine of between RM5,000 and RM100,000, or imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
For non-domestic premises, a first offence carries a fine of between RM20,000 and RM1 million, or imprisonment for up to five years, or both, while a second or subsequent offence carries a fine of between RM100,000 and RM5 million, or imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
Ismail also reminded the public not to interfere with electricity meters or equipment belonging to the utility provider and to report any irregularities involving meters or illegal connections to the EC or SE.
“Owners of premises are also advised to exercise caution when renting out their properties and to monitor the activities carried out by tenants,” he said.
He also encouraged owners of premises to sign a Change of Tenancy electricity supply agreement with SE to avoid being held liable for any illegal electricity use at their rented premises.
Ismail said enforcement activities would continue to ensure compliance with regulations and protect consumers from hazards arising from electricity use.
Members of the public can report suspected electricity theft to the EC at 03-8870 8800 or via email at eaduan@st.gov.my.
