KANGAR: The implementation of targeted diesel subsidy and ongoing enforcement by the Perlis branch of the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has contributed to an almost 70% drop in cases under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 in the state this year.
The ministry's Perlis director Rohaida Hassan said a total of 30 cases under the Act were recorded as of Oct 31 this year, down from 99 cases in the same period last year, thanks to close monitoring and integrated operations with various enforcement agencies in the state.
"The drop reflects the effectiveness of targeted diesel subsidy in preventing abuse and raising traders’ awareness on the importance of complying with trade laws,” she told reporters after a walkabout at Kuala Perlis Public Market in conjunction with the Pasar Patuh Programme on Wednesday (Nov 5).
Regarding the monitoring and enforcement of the Budi Madani RON95 (Budi95) programme, Rohaida said that over 700 inspections have so far been conducted at 39 petrol stations across Perlis to ensure compliance with set standards and that the subsidy is distributed only to eligible recipients.
"So far, we have received only one complaint regarding the dispensing of the fuel, and inspections found that the pumps at the station comply with standards,” she said.
Meanwhile, Rohaida advised consumers in the state who are eligible for Budi95 not to allow others to use their identification cards to claim the fuel subsidy.
On the implementation of the 3P programme at Kuala Perlis Public Market, she said it was an effort by the ministry to strengthen the local business compliance culture through the integration of three key components, namely legalistic, smart and prudent enforcement.
"Through this programme, we want traders to have awareness of the importance of complying with regulations, such as displaying price tags and ensuring weighing equipment is certified, to safeguard consumers’ rights,” she said.
Rohaida said the programme also involved cooperation with the Kangar Municipal Council (MPK), the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama), and the state Health Department.
She said the cross-agency approach is crucial to strengthening trade governance and creating a business environment that is organised, ethical and fair. – Bernama
