THE Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has inspected 375 premises nationwide as part of its ongoing enforcement operation, Op Kesan 4.0, launched to monitor potential profiteering following the expansion of the Sales and Services Tax (SST) system.
The inspections, conducted between 1 July and yesterday, involved 1,698 stock-keeping units (SKUs) across a wide range of businesses including manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers.
Speaking to reporters during an inspection at the Selangor Wholesale Market in Seri Kembangan today, Deputy Director-General (Operations) of KPDN's Enforcement Division, Shamsul Nizam Khalil, said the operation aims to ensure that traders do not exploit the SST adjustments as an excuse to raise prices unfairly.
“For enforcement, it covers goods and services affected by the revised SST rates, as well as essential items that are not subject to the SST changes,” he said.
Six notices under Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 were issued to companies found with questionable pricing practices. Of these, two companies have since agreed to delay any price increases and maintain current prices.
“Two other companies attended their sessions and explained that their pricing movements were aligned with the imposition of the new sales tax, while two more are currently undergoing engagement sessions,” Shamsul Nizam added.
Seventeen complaints have been received since the operation began, all of which are still under investigation.
KPDN has reiterated its warning that harsh penalties await those found guilty of profiteering. Individuals face fines of up to RM100,000 or imprisonment for up to three years, or both. Companies may be fined up to RM500,000.
“KPDN also welcomes requests for guidance on the basic principles and mechanisms of determining profiteering, to ensure that businesses remain aware of current legal requirements,” he said.
Shamsul Nizam added that this operation forms part of the broader **KITA GEMPUR** initiative, launched on 19 October 2024, to combat price manipulation and other unethical commercial practices.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected price manipulation by providing detailed and accurate information via the following channels: Enforcement Command Centre: 03-8882 6245 / 6088, WhatsApp: 012-665 4292, Online: [https://eaduan.kpdn.gov.my](https://eaduan.kpdn.gov.my), Call Centre: 1-800-886-800 or Ez ADU KPDN mobile application. - July 9, 2025
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