Domestic trade ministry tightens RON95 controls: Foreign vehicles, cards blocked from April 1

 

Starting April 1, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry will launch a more aggressive strategy to deal with disruptions to the global oil supply due to the escalating conflict in West Asia.

This includes enforcement of the ban on the sale and purchase of RON95 by foreign-registered vehicles, the ministry said in a statement today.

Separately, Astro Awani reported that the use of foreign credit and debit cards at all petrol stations will be gradually restricted starting April 1.

Enforcement director-general Azman Adam said those with foreign cards will need to make payments at the station counter instead of at the pump

“We are integrating the petrol pump system with the identity database (MyKad) and the banking system.

“After April 1, the system will automatically filter transactions,” he said.

He explained that this will help monitor petrol station operators and enforcement authorities, as well as ensure compliance with regulations.

Restricted access

Iran restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz after the United States and Israel launched a joint attack on the West Asian country on Feb 28.

Strait of Hormuz

This caused a massive disruption to the global supply of oil and gas, with multiple countries announcing austerity measures to combat surging oil prices.

Normally, about 3,000 ships sail through the strait, which straddles the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, every month.

In its statement, the ministry said all petrol station licensees in East Malaysia are to implement controls over the sale of diesel to land transport vehicles.

Controls will be based on vehicle categories, in quantities of 50 litres, 100 litres, and 150 litres per transaction, it said.

“This measure is important to ensure that the supply of diesel oil sold at a subsidised price of RM2.15 per litre in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan is not exploited by smuggling syndicates or unqualified industrial sectors,” it explained.

It said 2,400 ministry enforcement officials are on high alert nationwide to carry out field inspections and monitoring.

The ministry warned that it will not compromise on any individuals or syndicates who attempt to capitalise on the effects of the conflict.

“Misappropriation of state subsidies is a form of betrayal of the interests of the people and the country. The strictest enforcement action will be taken without any tolerance,” it said. - Mkini