Right after Malaysia fully opened its borders on April 1, a swarm of foreign-registered vehicles was seen at petrol stations, mainly in Johor.
What got Malaysians fuming was that some of them were filling up with RON95 fuel, instead of RON97.
The law clearly states that owners of foreign-registered vehicles are not allowed to fuel up with RON95 while in Malaysia.
RON95, capped at RM2.05 per litre, is heavily subsidised by the Malaysian government, while RON97 costs almost double, per litre.
Some Malaysian motorists even went to the extent of confronting those fuelling up their foreign-registered vehicles with RON95, while others shared their views online.
Responding to the grouses of locals, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi warned that his ministry would come down hard against petrol station owners who continued to sell RON95 to owners of foreign-registered vehicles.
In a statement this evening, the ministry said it will mobilise 2,200 enforcement personnel nationwide, to monitor vehicle owners, and petrol station owners who continue to flout the law. This includes deploying plainclothes personnel at petrol stations to nab the culprits red-handed.
Alexander said individuals can face fines of not more than RM1,000,000 (for first-time offenders) and not more than RM3,000,000 for the subsequent offence, or be sent to prison for not more than three years.
Companies that run foul of the law can be fined not more than RM2,000,000 for the first offence, followed by not more than RM5,000,000 for the subsequent offence.
“The ministry will also temporarily suspend the licences of petrol station operators until investigations are completed,” said Alexander.
“This is a stern warning to everyone and petrol station owners that the ministry will not compromise with any party.
“Strict action will be taken, including charging them (the offenders) in court based on laws under the Control of Supplies Act, 1961,” he added.
Those with information, or know of anyone breaking the law, can report to the ministry directly via:
- WhatsApp: +6019-279 4317
- Complaints portal: e-aduan.kpdnhep.gov.my
- Call Centre: 1-800-886-800
- Email: e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my
