KUALA LUMPUR – Authorities, including the Special Joint Task Force on Enforcement Operation on Local White Rice (Op BPT), have confiscated nearly half a million ringgit worth of the foodstuff from an unlicensed factory.
In a statement today, the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry said that inspections by the task force on the raid conducted yesterday found that the Super Special Local 5% (SST5) rice, or local white rice, was stashed in the warehouse.
The rice, the ministry said, was kept in jumbo bags amounting to 180 metric tonnes, while the estimated value of the seized goods is said to be around RM405,000.
The statement also quoted deputy minister Chan Foong Hin, who issued a stern warning for all parties to adhere to the law.
“The ministry and task force members will take stern action against any individuals or companies found to be in violation of existing regulations.
“Don’t attempt to take advantage of conditions as now is the time for us to work together to ensure sufficient food supply for the people, instead of pressuring consumers of farmers merely to rake in more profits,” Chan said.
The case will be investigated under the Control of Padi and Rice Act 1994 (Act 522) and the Control of Padi and Rice Regulations (Padi Factories Licensing) 1996.
If found guilty, the rice mill can be subjected to a fine of up to RM25,000 for its first offense, and its license may be revoked or suspended.
Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had cautioned that legal action would be taken against quarters found to be hiding local rice stocks.
He said the government would not turn a blind eye to those who have the audacity to commit such acts when consumers around the country are facing shortages of the staple food. – October 10, 2023