KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 168 cases involving the misappropriation of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have been reported since the launch of Op Gasak in May, the Dewan Rakyat was told.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the seizures recorded in these cases amounted to RM5.2 million.
“The ministry launched Op Gasak on May 1 this year to combat the misuse of subsidised LPG.
“One of the main offences targeted under the operation is decanting, which refers to the illegal transfer of LPG from subsidised cylinders to industrial or commercial cylinders.
“Based on enforcement statistics recorded from May 1 to July 27, a total of 168 cases were reported, with seizures amounting to RM5.2 million.
“These included the confiscation of subsidised LPG and other related items,” he said in a written parliamentary reply.
He was responding to Khoo Poay Tiong (PH-Kota Melaka), who had asked about the achievements of Op Gasak in curbing the misappropriation of subsidised LPG, including the number of cases and the total value of seizures recorded.
Armizan said LPG is currently classified as a scheduled controlled item under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 and is regulated by the ministry.
He added that enforcement and inspections of industries involved in the LPG business have been carried out by the ministry since LPG was listed as a scheduled controlled item in October 2021.
He also said the primary objective of the classification is to ensure a stable supply of LPG in the market.
“Simultaneously, following the cabinet decision made on June 5, the ministry is currently engaging stakeholders in the process of amending the Control of Supplies Regulations 2021.”
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