Limbang traders probed over hoarding 324kg of sugar, imposing illegal sales conditions

Matthew (left) inspecting the packet sugar seized from a retailer in Limbang.

By DayakDaily Team

LIMBANG, Oct 17: Two business premises are under investigation for allegedly hoarding 324 kilogrammes of sugar and imposing conditions on buyers for the purchase of controlled goods.

Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin revealed that these violations were uncovered during Ops Samar, conducted from Oct 11 to 15 at several outlets in Limbang District.

During inspections prompted by public complaints, one premises was found to have imposed conditional sales, where customers purchasing one kilogramme of sugar, priced at RM2.85 per packet, were charged an additional RM0.50 for a plastic bag with each sugar purchase.

“The trader is suspected of violating the law by imposing conditions without the approval of the Supply Controller,” said Matthew in a statement today.

At another premises, officers discovered 324 kilogrammes of sugar stored in its warehouse.

“The trader claimed that the one-kilogramme packets of sugar were out of stock during test purchases conducted by enforcement officers. However, the trader is suspected of hoarding and refusing to sell the controlled goods,” he added.

The ministry’s Limbang branch has opened two investigation papers under Section 15 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961 for hoarding sugar and Section 19 of the same Act for conditionally selling controlled goods.

If convicted, offenders could face fines of up to RM1 million or imprisonment of up to three years, or both.

The public is encouraged to assist the ministry by reporting any misappropriation of subsidised controlled goods to help combat activities that cause significant losses to both the people and the nation.

Reports may be made via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000 or 019-279 4317, through the complaint portal at e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my, by calling the Call Centre at 1-800-886-80, or using the Ez ADU KPDN mobile app. — DayakDaily