PETALING JAYA: Seven petrol stations in Selangor are being investigated following complaints that the RON95 petrol sold was contaminated with water, causing damage to vehicle engines.
Selangor Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) director Muhamad Hanif Asa’ari said 10 official complaints involving the seven premises were thoroughly investigated on Friday (Oct 16).
According to a report by Sinar Harian, enforcement officers seized 27 cans of RON95 petrol from the alleged affected pumps for laboratory analysis by the Chemistry Department.
The complaints involved various engine problems, including abnormal noises, jerking, loss of power, engines failing to start and, in some cases, burnt engine valves.
Further inspections by vehicle manufacturers’ service centres had also confirmed that water contamination in fuel tanks was responsible for engine damage in some of the affected vehicles.
Muhamad Hanif said preliminary checks found that all seven stations held valid Controlled Schedule Article (CSA) licences and licences under the Petroleum Development Act 1974.
However, enforcement action had been taken to assist the investigation, including the issuance of notices under Section 32 of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 requiring the premises owners to submit business-related information and documents.
He said the investigation was also looking into possible breaches of Section 5(1)(c), read together with Sections 6(1)(d) and 7 of the Act, in connection with alleged false trade descriptions relating to the composition of the petrol supplied.
Muhamad Hanif warned oil companies and petrol station operators to ensure their underground storage tanks were regularly maintained and complied with the prescribed safety and quality standards.
He said stern action would be taken against any party found to have compromised consumer safety and interests.
Meanwhile, affected motorists are advised to keep their official petrol purchase receipts and workshop inspection reports as supporting documents for the investigation.
