KOTA KINABALU: Smuggling subsidised items out of Sandakan is not just a crime — it's stealing from the poor, say enforcement officers as they ramp up patrols in local waters.
The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, with help from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and Sabah Ports and Harbours Department (JPDS), carried out a joint operation Monday (March 24), inspecting four jetties and warning that enforcement will intensify.
“These subsidies are meant for those in need — not for syndicates or opportunists,” said Sandakan Domestic Trade chief enforcement officer Azdy Zukkry John when met by the press after the operation.
He said while no illegal activity was uncovered during this round, one fishermen’s association jetty was flagged for poor stock-keeping and instructed to improve how it handles controlled goods.
So far this year, the Sandakan branch of the Domestic Trade Ministry has received 14 smuggling cases handed over by partner agencies. All are being investigated under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
“We’re urging those transporting controlled goods — cooking oil, diesel, LPG — to get proper permits. If not, you’ll be stopped,” Azdy said, adding that strategic partnerships with maritime agencies allow them to strike at any time.
He said smuggling syndicates often operate at night, sometimes using forged documents.
“But we’re watching. And we’re planning a full-scale operation involving all agencies soon — day or night.”
Sandakan MMEA operations deputy director Commander Firdaus Sahaari said the agency had deployed three boats with 15 crew members in Monday’s sweep.
“Since early Ramadan, we’ve been running six assets regularly to monitor any attempt to divert subsidised goods out to sea,” he said.
Meanwhile, Azdy called on the public to keep reporting suspicious activities — but reminded them not to misuse the channel for personal vendettas.
“We’ve had cases where tip-offs were used to settle rivalries. So we vet everything, carefully,” he said.
He encouraged people to report through WhatsApp or even Facebook messages.
“We’ll listen. But please — help us ensure these items go to the people who truly need them.”
