Ops Tiris 4.0 timely, necessary to curb fuel smuggling amid West Asia crisis, says S’wak minister

KUCHING (April 7): The implementation of Ops Tiris 4.0 is a timely and necessary step to strengthen enforcement and curb smuggling activities, particularly involving subsidised fuel, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

The state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts minister said the initiative, which will be carried out in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan, reflects a proactive move by the federal government to enhance monitoring of goods and prevent leakages in subsidy distribution amid the West Asia crisis.

“At present, we are facing pressure from rising prices, especially fuel. When fuel prices increase, it has a spillover effect on other goods.

“This is where enforcement becomes very important,” he told a press conference here.

Abdul Karim said the special task force under Ops Tiris 4.0 would involve integrated enforcement by multiple agencies, including the police, the armed forces and other relevant authorities.

“This is to ensure price control and to prevent anyone from taking advantage of the situation for excessive profit,” he said.

He pointed out that weak enforcement could undermine government efforts even if subsidies and price control mechanisms are in place.

“You can have all the good subsidies, but if enforcement is not carried out properly, it can defeat the purpose,” he said.

Abdul Karim also highlighted that smuggling, particularly of diesel, remains an “open secret” and occurs in various parts of Sarawak due to comparatively lower fuel prices in the state.

“When fuel and goods are cheaper here, smuggling will happen, especially across border areas.

“If enforcement agencies do not carry out their responsibilities properly, it can lead to shortages locally and undermine the government’s intention to help the rakyat through subsidies,” he said.

He added that enforcement must be carried out consistently, not only during times of crisis but also under normal circumstances.

“Such activities have been happening even before fuel prices increased. It is important for the relevant agencies to perform their duties at all times,” he said.

While welcoming the initiative, Abdul Karim said further details on the implementation of the task force at the state level have yet to be finalised.

“I was only informed about this today and have not received detailed information on which agencies or ministries will be involved, but the move itself is a good step forward,” he said.