KPDN probing 2 cases of hoarding of coarse sugar in Limbang

MIRI (Oct 17): The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Limbang branch opened two investigation papers into separate cases of alleged hoarding of coarse sugar in Limbang which was uncovered during Ops Samar this month.

Sarawak KPDN director Matthew Dominic Barin said both cases were investigated under Section 15 of the Supply Control Act 1961 and Section 19 of the Supply Control Act 1961.

Ops Samar, which was carried out on October 11-15, checked on several premises in Limbang District selling the controlled item.

“Inspection carried out at two different business premises found that the first premises had imposed a conditional purchase whereby every purchase of one kg pack of coarse sugar which cost RM2.85 was subject to an additional plastic bag charge of RM0.50.

“At the second business premises, it was found that 324kg of sugar in 1kg packs were hidden in the storage area of the premises.

“Questioned by the enforcement officers during the inspection, the trader claimed that the 1kg pack of coarse granulated sugar had run out of stock,” he said in a media statement today.

Matthew said a fine of not more than RM2 million can be imposed on a business corporation for the first offence if convicted while a fine not exceeding RM1 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or both could be imposed on an individual for the first offence if convicted.

For the second offence, a fine not exceeding RM3 million or imprisonment not exceeding five years or both will be imposed on the offender.

Mathew called on the public to assist the ministry by becoming its eyes and ears to curb malpractices in sale of controlled items which are subsidised by the government.

The public can channel information or complaints to the ministry via WhatsApp to 019-848 8000/019-279 4317 or to e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my, call centre 1-800-886-80.