Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) will enforce Section 5 of the Trade Descriptions Act (APD) 2011 (Act 730) to identify parties that make false trade descriptions regarding the content, type, and labeling of rice. Its Minister, Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, stated that this includes the offense of misappropriating the sale of rice by altering the packaging or labeling, which can mislead consumers.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, armizan emphasized the importance of rice sample analysis in enforcing Act 730, as it is crucial in distinguishing between imported white rice (BPI) and local white rice (BPT). The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) now possesses expertise through rice deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing technology, and KPDN will consult MARDI as a competent authority.

Armizan mentioned that the decision followed a meeting with MARDI, during which they received a briefing on a study regarding the mixing of BPI and BPT in the market. He also noted that the ministry is strengthening its standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure effective enforcement related to mixed rice issues, encompassing aspects like rice sample exhibit management and the admissibility of evidence in court.

In addition to MARDI, KPDN plans to enhance strategic cooperation with the Department of Chemistry Malaysia. The ministry is committed to enforcement efforts to tackle illegal rice mixing and false trade descriptions, aiming to protect consumer interests and support the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in advancing the country’s padi and rice industry.