GEORGE TOWN: The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry seized 1,900kg of wheat flour during an inspection at food-producing premises in Teluk Kumbar here yesterday, on suspicion of hoarding the goods.
Its northeast district chief enforcement officer Ahmad Ahrazzuddin Ahmad Hamdan said checks showed the wheat flour, valued at RM4,637, were supposed to be used in the production of food.
"Our checks showed that the trader was in possession of the controlled item beyond the permitted limit.
"The trader was told to produce the permit to store the controlled item or written permission from the ministry to do so, but to no avail.
"As such, we seized the 1,900kg of wheat flour and relevant documents for further investigations," he said today.
The case is being investigated under the Supply Control Act 1961, which provides for a fine not exceeding RM1 million or imprisonment not exceeding three years or both if convicted.
According to Ahrazzuddin, the ministry views seriously violations committed by licence holders, especially licences of controlled goods.
"The violations committed can be detrimental to the government and the people," he added.
He also advised all licence holders to comply with the instructions given to prevent them from being subject to stern action.