KUALA LUMPUR: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry is actively addressing concerns of potential hoarding and ensuring the fair distribution of essential subsidised goods.
With a proactive campaign targeting suspected hoarders, particularly among foreigners, the ministry has conducted raids in various states, including Melaka, Perak, and Selangor.
These raids were showcased on the ministry's social media platforms, actively updating the public on the series of raids conducted in various states.
Deputy Minister Fuziah Salleh said that while the proactive raid initiative has been ongoing, the ministry is now adopting a more swift and assertive strategy in sharing enforcement activities to keep the public well-informed.
"Certainly, the ministry's enforcement unit has consistently and proactively carried out raids, as depicted in the video. These efforts might not have been extensively communicated to the public in the past.
"Our current approach is adopting a more assertive strategy in sharing such enforcement activities.
The goal is to ensure that the public is well-informed about the diligent efforts undertaken by the ministry," she told the New Straits Times.
Fuziah underscored that these measures serve as a clear and stern warning from the ministry, urging individuals to adhere strictly to existing regulations.
"This stands as a firm admonition from the ministry in addressing this widespread issue, reaffirming the ministry's unwavering commitment and refusal to tolerate any party deviating from the prescribed guidelines."
"When the public is informed about the ministry's diligent efforts, it motivates them to be more vigilant and report any violations related to controlled items by anyone."
The operations are aimed at addressing and rectifying severe cases of hoarding reportedly prevalent across the nation.
Enforcement officers lead the raids, conducting thorough inspections of premises suspected of storing essential subsidised goods beyond permissible limits.
This initiative underscores the government's dedication to ensuring that essential goods, mainly those subject to subsidies, are readily available to the public and not stockpiled for profiteering purposes.
As the crackdown on hoarding intensifies, the ministry's efforts are expected to contribute to a more equitable distribution of essential goods, benefiting Malaysian citizens and promoting transparency in the market.
In a video featured on their social media, the ministry's branch in Kuala Kubu Baru conducted surprise inspections at various establishments in Bukit Beruntung and Sungai Buaya, suspecting a subsidised 1 kg cooking oil shortage. (https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=678084874188746)
During undercover operations, agents attempted to purchase the 1kg cooking oil from these areas. Surprisingly, traders at one of the premises claimed a lack of stock for the 1 kg cooking oil.
However, this contradiction prompted the inspection team to enter the premises and thoroughly search the storage area at the back, uncovering several boxes believed to contain the elusive 1kg cooking oil.
The video also highlighted that enforcement officers initiated inspections and preliminary inquiries, revealing that the trader lacked the license to sell controlled items.
The public has overwhelmingly praised the stringent actions taken by KPDN, with some urging for more frequent raids to be conducted. This support reflects a desire to ensure that no one can take advantage of or exploit the current situation.
"Regular and stringent monitoring on a weekly or monthly basis could instil a sense of caution among traders and their assistants, especially foreign nationals.
"The challenge arises from the number of individuals opting for rest rather than work, receiving their monthly salary. Additionally, some boldly engage in accepting bribes," wrote Jamaluddin Jab.