THE Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is intensifying its investigation efforts regarding the issue of mixed rice in the market by reinforcing the standard operating procedures (SOP) for enforcement under the Trade Descriptions Act (TDA) 2011.
Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, said today this initiative is a result of a recent meeting with the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), where the ministry was briefed on the findings of studies related to the mixing of imported white rice (BPI) and local white rice (BPT).
“KPDN will enforce Section 5 of the TDA 2011 to identify parties involved in making false trade descriptions concerning the content, type, and labelling of rice.
“This includes any fraudulent activities such as misleading the public by altering the packaging or labels of rice products,” he said in a Facebook post today.
Armizan explained enforcing the TDA is crucial in determining which parties are involved in falsely labelling rice products.
“We aim to protect consumers from being misled about the products they purchase.”
One of the key aspects of enforcing the TDA is rice sample analysis, which is essential to distinguish between BPI and BPT.
“MARDI, with its expertise in rice DNA fingerprinting technology, will be referred to as the competent authority in carrying out these analyses. This partnership aims to ensure the identification process is scientifically accurate and reliable.
The ministry is also reinforcing its SOP to ensure effective enforcement against mixed rice issues. The SOP will cover all aspects, including the management of rice sample exhibits and the admissibility of evidence in court. Amirzan said.
In addition to MARDI, KPDN will also enhance its strategic collaboration with the Department of Chemistry Malaysia.
“The ministry is committed to taking action against the illegal mixing of rice through fraudulent trade descriptions to safeguard consumer interests and assist the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) in improving the country’s rice and paddy industry,” he said.
This initiative forms part of a broader effort to ensure that the local rice industry remains transparent, accountable, and reliable, in line with national agricultural goals Amirzan added. – March 10, 2025
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