BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs seized 268 fake 'Arai' helmets in a raid conducted at a premises near here today.
The raid was carried out in collaboration with representatives of the respective copyright owners, leading to the discovery of the items worth RM70,240.
Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Penang state director S Jegan, said an examination conducted on the motorcycle helmets revealed that they were branded 'TSR' but contained Arai artistic trademarks for various models such as Nakano Shukiken Silver, Black Samurai, and Oriental Blue.
"This action was found to be a violation of the Copyright Act 1987."Therefore, all the seized items have been detained for further action," he said in a statement here today.
Meanwhile, Jegan warned individuals and parties concerned to always comply with the copyright laws.
"Any person committing an offense may be liable under the Copyright Act 1987.
"If found guilty, they may be fined not less than RM2,000 and not more than RM20,000 for each infringing copy, or imprisoned for a term not exceeding five years or both.
"Whereas for any subsequent offense, they may be fined not less than RM4,000 and not more than RM40,000 for each infringing copy, or imprisoned for a term not exceeding ten years or both," he said.
He said that the public is urged to be vigilant and report to the authorities regarding activities involving unauthorized copies by the copyright owner.