Penang:The Penang Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is broadening its investigation into alleged RON95 petrol quality issues throughout the entire supply chain. This expansion aims to identify factors that may be contributing to the problem.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative follows investigations at the consumer and petrol station levels. Fuel samples have been collected and sent to the Department of Chemistry for analysis. State KPDN Director S. Jegan emphasized the importance of examining the entire supply chain, not just focusing on petrol stations and consumers.

During a recent working visit to a fuel supply depot in Perai, Jegan explained that the visit was part of efforts to scrutinize processes such as receiving, storage, management, quality control, and distribution of fuel before it reaches petrol stations. Fuel samples from the depot are also being analyzed alongside those obtained from the first eight complainants' petrol stations and vehicles.

The department has recorded an increase in complaints, now totaling 33, up from 21, involving about 30 petrol stations operated by two brands in Penang. Jegan noted that while the analysis typically takes about a month, results might be available sooner. However, the visit does not imply any specific stage or oil company in the supply chain is at fault.

Consumers facing fuel quality issues are encouraged to file official complaints with KPDN and relevant oil companies to aid ongoing investigations. Those with evidence of vehicle damage due to fuel can also seek recourse through the Tribunal for Consumer Claims Malaysia (TTPM). Allegations have surfaced on social media about water contamination in RON95 petrol, purportedly causing vehicle issues in Penang.