Mobile ECOSS Taps National Database To Stop Subsidised Cooking Oil Abuse

KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has introduced a mobile version of its eCOSS Cooking Oil Price Stabilisation Scheme that integrates with the National Registration Department’s database to curb misuse of subsidised packaged cooking oil and block sales to non-citizens.

Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the initiative aims to enhance oversight of 60,000 metric tonnes of subsidised cooking oil distributed monthly, especially to the B40 income group.

Irregularities can quickly be identified through real-time tracking of retailers, buyers and quantities purchased, he added.

Armizan said the mobile app, currently piloted under the Rahmah Sales Programme, ensures traceability throughout the supply chain, from distributors to point-of-sale outlets. He also confirmed that the Johor government has joined the pilot scheme.

“Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for a ban on foreign purchases of subsidised oil. With this app, we can enforce that, since it verifies identities against the national registry,” he told the Dewan Rakyat during the winding-up debate on the Auditor‑General’s Report 2/2025.

During the debate, MPs raised concerns about existing vulnerabilities in the eCOSS system. Tan Kar Hing (PH‑Gopeng) proposed replacing the subsidy with targeted e-vouchers using the PADU national data system, while Datuk Mohd Isam Mohd Isa (BN‑Tampin) urged an immediate ban on foreign access to subsidised oil, citing widespread abuse in distribution.

-- BERNAMA