Buying a simple packet of subsidised cooking oil might soon come with a new step for Malaysians: scanning their MyKad.
The government is stepping in after complaints that locals often can’t get their hands on these essentials because foreigners are buying them up.
Why the new system is needed
Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Datuk Dr. Fuziah Salleh explained that the concern over foreign nationals accessing subsidised goods isn’t new.
We are aware that items such as cooking oil, sugar, petrol, and many others face different challenges. While sugar supply is currently stable and not a major issue, packet cooking oil has become problematic as Malaysians struggle to obtain it when foreigners purchase it,” she said during the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) debate in the Senate.
To tackle this growing frustration, KPDN believes a more targeted system is needed, one that ensures subsidies reach the people they are meant for, reported Harian Metro.
How the new system works
This is where the Cooking Oil Price Stabilisation Scheme System (eCOSS) comes in. Designed to monitor the entire supply chain from wholesalers and retailers right down to the end consumer, the system aims to prevent misuse at every level.
Under this system, customers will need to scan their MyKad before buying subsidised cooking oil. This verification process will confirm citizenship status, making sure only Malaysians can purchase the subsidised items.
Dr. Fuziah emphasised that this move isn’t about inconvenience, but about protecting subsidies for those who need them most.
Up next: RON95 petrol purchases
But the government isn’t stopping with cooking oil. Dr. Fuziah revealed that the same MyKad verification process will soon apply to RON95 petrol purchases.
“In the near future, petrol stations will require MyKad verification before RON95 can be purchased. This is part of our broader strategy to ensure subsidised controlled goods do not leak to foreign nationals, with each item having its own implementation approach,” she explained.
For now, the system is still being tested before its nationwide launch. However, authorities are confident it will close loopholes and help protect government subsidies, ensuring that Malaysians and only Malaysians benefit from the assistance.
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