GEORGE TOWN: Penang traders have been warned against imposing any conditions on customers wanting to buy subsidised cooking oil sold in 1kg polybags.
"We will not hesitate to take stern action against errant traders," said Penang Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry director S Jegan in a statement.
His statement comes amid reports of a shortage of subsidised cooking oil in the state.
Jegan said that since the start of the year, they have received five complaints from traders who set conditions for the sale of goods.
"Those with information should furnish us with information so that necessary action can be taken."
Jegan said periodic checks found that suppliers supplied sufficient cooking oil to traders.
"But there is no denying there is a shortage due to high demand from consumers and the delivery schedule of suppliers."
Jegan between Sept 1 and Sept 20, a total of 2.06 million bags of cooking oil were distributed in Penang.