Kuching's Kuching-Samarahan Expressway Petronas station is in hot water over a fuel mix-up. The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is investigating the incident, where petrol was reportedly mixed with diesel on Wednesday. KPDN Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin dispatched enforcement officers to the station at 2:30 p.m. on the same day. An inquiry paper was opened under Section 5(1)(b) of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, addressing violations under Section 6(1)(d) related to goods' contents or components. Swift action was taken to safeguard consumer rights.
Matthew warns that those found guilty face severe penalties under the Trade Descriptions Act. Corporations could face fines of up to RM250,000 for a first offense and up to RM500,000 for subsequent offenses. For individuals or non-corporate entities, penalties include fines of up to RM100,000 or imprisonment for up to three years, or both. Repeat offenders may face fines of up to RM250,000 or imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
Matthew urges the public to act as the 'eyes and ears' of the ministry by reporting misconduct or irregularities in business activities. Complaints can be lodged via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, email at email protected, the call center at 1-800-886-800, or through the Ez ADU KPDN smartphone application.
The incident reportedly caused several vehicles to break down after refueling at the station due to a technical issue with the storage tank system. The matter went viral on social media earlier that day. Station staff said around 2,000 liters of diesel were believed to have been mixed with petrol due to a technical malfunction.
Petronas Dagangan Berhad issued a holding statement confirming the station's temporary closure to facilitate further investigations into the operational issue. They assured customers that other Petronas stations nationwide are not affected and are operating as usual. Matthew emphasized KPDN's appreciation for public reports and cooperation from other agencies, highlighting the importance of collaboration in protecting consumer rights. He reminded distributors and traders to strictly comply with existing laws and regulations.
