BANDAR PERMAISURI: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Terengganu branch seized 38,500 litres of diesel intended for the Setiu River Estuary Conservation Project in Kampung Mangkuk, after discovering it was stored at an unlicensed premises yesterday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the seizure was carried out by 12 KPDN enforcement officers and 11 Royal Malaysia Police personnel after the company overseeing the project failed to comply with storage regulations specified in their permit. The company’s permit from the Supply Control Officer allowed diesel storage, but it appears they moved the controlled items from the licensed storage site at the project office to an unlicensed location approximately one kilometre away.

Diesel storage sites require permits to prevent potential fire or explosion hazards, with approvals involving several agencies, including the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, to ensure compliance with safety standards. Saharuddin Mohd Kia, the director of KPDN Tere
ngganu, urged all parties involved, including contractors, to strictly adhere to these regulations, emphasizing that safety guidelines must be upheld even in government projects.

The company is also suspected of storing a diesel quantity exceeding the 18,000-litre limit specified in its permit. Along with the diesel, authorities seized two lorries and two skid tanks, with a combined value of RM982,035. The project manager and two lorry drivers were arrested to assist in the investigation under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.

If convicted, individuals may face a fine of up to RM1 million, a prison sentence of up to three years, or both, while companies can be fined up to RM2 million. For repeat offences, the fine may increase to RM5 million.