KUALA LUMPUR: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has received reports from petrol station owners who are allegedly being threatened and coerced to continue selling subsidised diesel to smuggling syndicates.
Its minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said among the threats include wanting to burn down petrol stations, and damaging the facilities at these premises, as well as threats against the owners and workers of the petrol station companies.
"To all petrol stations, whether in the Peninsula, Sabah, or Sarawak, I advise you to lodge official reports to the ministry, and do not worry as the ministry will keep the information confidential.
"Some petrol station owners have previously chosen not to provide information or reports to the police because they are afraid that if they do so, more threats will be made against them and their workers," he said after officiating the 2024 National Intellectual Property Awards ceremony here, today.
He said the purpose of these actions was to gather information and conduct investigation so the ministry could enhance its enforcement and apprehend those involved in cases of diesel smuggling.
"Smuggling and leakages are a sabotage against the government's efforts to alleviate the cost of living by providing fuel subsidies.
"The ministry and the police are gathering reports to investigate these cases."
Meanwhile, in his speech at the event, Armizan said the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) is offering a fee exemption for the preliminary opinion and search service for trademark registration.
This offer is valid for a one month period from April 24 to May 23, 2024, subject to terms and conditions.
He added that the decision was made with the aim of encouraging more trademark registrations and providing opportunities for more entrepreneurs to protect their intellectual property rights.