KUALA LUMPUR – Proposed amendments to the Control of Supplies Act 1961 (Act 122), if passed, will give government supplies officers the authority to sell confiscated goods that are perishable and flammable.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said this is part of the ministry’s attempt to improve Act 122, although it is unclear how this particular amendment will be beneficial.
Speaking in Parliament, Alexander said the proposed amendment will be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat during the current sitting which runs until next week.
“The amendment will see a provision to allow the sale of confiscated items that may damage easily, are flammable and of high cost,” he said today.
The minister said this will be done via the introduction of a new Section 12a under the act.
In addition, Alexander said a Section 12b will also be introduced to exempt claims made to the government by any party whose goods are confiscated, unless the seizure was done without a reasonable excuse.
A new Section 25a will also allow ministry officers to conduct samplings of confiscated goods to assist the prosecution with the evidence in court.
Separately, Alexander said an amendment will be made to Section 10 of the act to expand the scope of arresting without warrant to curb criminal activities related to the legislation.
“All these improvements will allow investigations and prosecutions on cases involving misappropriation of controlled items to be done more effectively,” he said. – The Vibes, March 14, 2022
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