Sarawak KPDN Opens Investigation Paper Into Viral RON95 Mix-Up Case

KUCHING, Dec 26 (Bernama) -- The Sarawak branch of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has opened an investigation paper under Section 5(1)(b) of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 following a viral incident involving RON95 petrol suspected to have been mixed with diesel or water at a Petronas station along the Samarahan Expressway in Kota Samarahan.

Its director, Matthew Dominic Barin, said the investigation was initiated after a complaint regarding the incident went viral on social media, with several consumers allegedly affected.

“On Dec 24 at about 2.30 pm, a team of four enforcement officers from Sarawak KPDN conducted an inspection at the petrol station following a complaint received from the Sarawak Roads Update Facebook page.

“An enquiry paper has been opened under Section 5(1)(b) of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 for a breach of Section 6(1)(d) relating to the description of the contents of goods,” he said in a statement today.

He said swift action had been taken by state KPDN against the petrol station involved to ensure compliance with regulations and to protect consumer rights.

Matthew said any trader found guilty could face action under the provisions of the law, including a fine of up to RM250,000 for corporate entities, which may increase to as much as RM500,000 for a second or subsequent offence.

“For individuals, the penalty includes a fine of not more than RM100,000 or imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years, or both. For a second or subsequent offence, the offender may be fined up to RM250,000 or imprisoned for a period not exceeding five years, or both,” he said.

In this regard, he advised all distributors and traders to strictly comply with existing laws and regulations to avoid enforcement action.

Members of the public who have information or complaints related to misconduct in business activities may channel them via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, email at e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my, the call centre at 1-800-886-800, or through the KPDN’s Ez ADU smartphone application.

-- BERNAMA