SIBU: Counterfeit watches and smartphones valued at more than RM90,000 have been seized in two separate raids on business premises around Sibu.
The raids, at about 11am on Thursday (July 24), were carried out by 12 enforcement officers from Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry's Sibu branch with the cooperation of representatives from trademark-owning companies.
Sibu Domestic Trade chief Kelyn Bolhassan said the enforcement operation resulted in the seizure of counterfeit watches worth RM48,312 and smartphones and accessories of various brands estimated at RM41,856.
"This operation was carried out under Section 102(1)(c) of the Trademarks Act 2019, which prohibits the possession or control of goods bearing falsely applied trademarks for the purpose of trade," he said in a statement on Friday (July 25)
He added that the ministry is committed to cracking down on counterfeit products in the market to ensure consumer rights are safeguarded.
"Traders are reminded to always comply with the law. We will continue to work closely with trademark owners and other agencies to protect both consumers and intellectual property rights," Kelyn said.
Under the Trademarks Act 2019, individuals found guilty may be fined up to RM10,000 for each counterfeit item, imprisoned for up to three years, or both. Companies may be fined up to RM15,000 for each wrongly trademarked item.
KPDN urged the public to report any suspected business misconduct through the Ez ADU mobile app, via the e-aduan.kpdnhep.gov.my website, or by contacting the Sibu branch directly through phone, email, WhatsApp, or by visiting the office in person.
