MALAYSIANS may soon be required to scan a QR code and verify their citizenship status before purchasing subsidised essentials such as RON95 petrol and cooking oil, as part of a nationwide system being developed to combat subsidy leakages.
Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh, told the Dewan Negara today that the system, currently under pilot testing, is designed to prevent non-citizens from accessing controlled and subsidised items intended exclusively for Malaysians.
“We are aware of concerns that foreigners are gaining access to controlled goods such as cooking oil, sugar and petrol,” she said during the winding-up speech for the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13).
“Each of these controlled goods poses unique challenges, but cooking oil in one-kilogramme packets is a particular issue because locals struggle to access them when foreigners buy in bulk.”
To address this, the ministry is developing a digital monitoring platform known as the Cooking Oil Price Stabilisation Scheme System (eCOSS), which will cover the entire supply chain from wholesalers and retailers to consumers.
“For users, the system requires QR code scanning, and purchases will only be approved once the buyer is verified as a Malaysian citizen,” said Dr Fuziah.
She also revealed that a similar mechanism is in the works for RON95 petrol.
“In the near future, the purchase of RON95 will also involve identity verification at petrol stations, likely through MyKad checks,” she added.
“This is part of our upcoming strategy to safeguard subsidised goods, ensuring they are not diverted to foreign nationals. Each item will have its own tailored implementation plan.”
The initiative is part of a broader government effort to tighten subsidy controls amid concerns over misuse and to ensure that public resources are directed towards their intended beneficiaries. - Sept 3, 2025
