By Amanda L
KUCHING, Apr 1: Foreign-registered vehicles are prohibited from purchasing subsidised RON95 petrol in Malaysia starting today (Apr 1), while international credit and debit cards can no longer be used at self-service pump terminals, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) said, adding that the measures aim to prevent misuse of subsidised fuel.
Chief Enforcement Director Datuk Azman Adam said the move strengthens existing enforcement by allowing action to be taken against both buyers and petrol station operators involved in illegal RON95 transactions.
“Previously, enforcement action could only be taken against petrol station operators found selling RON95 to foreign-registered vehicles.
“Starting today, if we detect the sale of RON95 to foreign vehicles, action can be taken against both the buyer and the seller,” he told reporters after a walkabout at the Petronas Tasik Biru petrol station.
Azman explained that the restriction on international payment cards was introduced after enforcement statistics showed many foreign motorists used international credit or debit cards at outdoor payment terminals to bypass existing rules. Under the new system, such motorists must complete transactions at the station counter rather than at the pump.
The rollout is being implemented in stages as some petrol stations have already updated their payment systems, while others are still completing the necessary configurations.
The measures are part of the nationwide Ops Tiris 4.0, a coordinated operation to prevent diversion and abuse of subsidised fuel. About 2,400 KPDN enforcement officers have been deployed nationwide, with support from other agencies including the police.
“Petrol stations showing unusual sales patterns may be monitored directly, and undercover officers may be deployed to verify transactions.
“CCTV systems at petrol stations will also support enforcement efforts,” he added.
Offences involving misuse or illegal sale of controlled fuel may be investigated under the Supply Control Act 1961. First-time offenders may face fines of up to RM1 million or imprisonment of up to three years, while companies may be fined up to RM2 million.
Azman urged the public to report suspicious activities, such as foreign vehicles attempting to fill RON95 or large quantities of petrol being transferred into containers, to assist authorities in enforcement. — DayakDaily
