SEBERANG PERAI, April 2 — The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in Penang has recorded eight cases of misappropriated subsidised diesel, with total seizures amounting to RM415,877.95.
Penang KPDN director S. Jegan said the cases, recorded between January and April this year, resulted in five arrests.
“The cases are currently under investigation or being prosecuted,” he told a press conference after visiting the Sungai Dua Petronas station here.
During the same period, a total of 215 petrol stations in the state were inspected. Since the enforcement of the RON95 restriction on April 1, 126 stations have been closely monitored to ensure full compliance, Jegan added.
KPDN Penang also received four public complaints related to the misuse of subsidised fuel.
“Two involved filling RON95 petrol into containers, while the other two concerned suspicious activities at petrol stations.
“Investigations found three of the complaints were baseless, while one diesel case remains under periodic monitoring,” he said.
He reminded petrol station operators that they are responsible for ensuring that only local vehicles are allowed to purchase RON95 petrol.
“Both operators and consumers found violating the regulations may face compounds or prosecution under the Control of Supplies Act 1961,” he warned.
Jegan said KPDN is stepping up enforcement in line with the prohibition on the sale and purchase of RON95 petrol to foreign-registered vehicles, which came into force on April 1.
“Enforcement is being conducted under Ops Tiris 4.0 (Bersepadu), and any violations may be prosecuted under the Control of Supplies Act 1961,” he said.
He added that inspections include scrutiny of documentation and sales patterns, particularly repeated transactions that may indicate irregularities or attempts to manipulate subsidised fuel distribution.
A total of 134 enforcement personnel have been deployed across key locations, working from morning until night.
“Continuous patrols, intelligence-gathering, and special operations are also being carried out, including joint efforts with other agencies, particularly in border areas,” Jegan said.
He said these measures are crucial to ensure subsidised fuel supplies are properly controlled amid ongoing concerns over supply and pricing.
Jegan also called on the public to report any suspected misappropriation through the “Kita Gempur” initiative, using KPDN’s e-Aduan portal, hotline, mobile application, or by visiting the nearest office.
“Public cooperation is vital in helping the government combat leakages and ensure that subsidised fuel benefits those who truly need it,” he said.
