GEORGE TOWN: The state Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) yesterday seized 216 fake 'Arai' motorcycle helmets during a raid on a premises in Sungai Bakap here.
State KPDN director S. Jegan said the premises was found to be operating as a wholesaler of helmets and motorcycle accessories.
He said the raid and inspection led to the discovery of a number of helmets, believed to be unauthorised copies of Arai artistic works.
"A total of 216 units of MHR brand helmets containing the 'Arai' artistic mark were confiscated, with the estimated value of RM54,000.
"The case is investigated under the Copyright Act 1987," he said in a statement today.
Jegan warned all individuals or companies to always comply with established laws.
He said anyone found committing an offence might face actions under the Copyright Act 1987.
If convicted, they can be fined not less than RM2,000 and not more than RM20,000 for each infringing copy, or imprisoned for a period not exceeding five years, or both.
For any subsequent offences, fines may be not less than RM4,000 and not more than RM40,000 for each infringing copy, or imprisonment for a period not exceeding ten years, or both.
"We urged the public to be the eyes and ears in reporting unauthorised copies held by copyright owners," he added.