Nine LPG traders compounded; two others under investigation

By: Mac Grimes

KOTA KINABALU: Eleven business owners selling Liquefied Petroleum Gasses (LPG) felt the heat for not displaying price tags or logging their transactions after being found out by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs(MDTCA).

Week long inspections carried out by the ministry ending yesterday saw seizures worth RM 1,117.20 from the eleven cases.

It’s Sabah director Georgie Abas said nine suspects were slapped with compounds and two others still under investigation.

“Issued compounds total RM 4,500 for not displaying proper price tags under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act.

“The two remaining cases fall under the Control of Supplies Act,” he said in a statement.

Retail prices for LPG which is a controlled, scheduled and subsidized substance go for RM 1.90 per kilogram (kg).

According to Georgie business owners are prohibited for charging more than RM 19.00 for 10kg cylinders, RM 22.80 for 12kg, and RM 26.60 for 14kg.

“Prices must be stated clearly at the premises including delivery charges if any.

“Sabah MDTCA will continue to conduct inspections on controlled items to ensure traders follow the law and consumers rights to be protected,” he said.

Meanwhile consumers are reminded to be more wary. Any information on suspected exploitation through the MDTCA’s nine hotlines.