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The Star
11-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Cooking oil mix-up of hot profits and holy fry-ups
EVERY Malaysian recognises the RM2.50 polybag of cooking oil (palm olein) – a kitchen essential subsidised under the Cooking Oil Stabilisation Scheme (Coss) to support B40 households. But behind this golden staple lies a simmering problem of misuse, leakages and profiteering that risks undermining the subsidy's purpose. Let's talk numbers. Each month, 60 million subsidised 1kg oil packets enter the market or 720,000 tonnes per year. With a population of 36 million, that's nearly two packets (1.7kg/month) per Malaysian – alarmingly high. In 2024 alone, this programme cost taxpayers RM1.945bil. Uniquely, much of this cost is for B40 in the nation and levied from the palm oil industry itself via a windfall profit levy (WPL) on oil palm growers. In principle, it's a noble arrangement. In practice, there are cracks. The border problem One big crack is at our borders. The Star on April 24, 2025, reported that authorities in Kelantan busted a syndicate trying to smuggle 7,000kg of subsidised cooking oil into a neighbouring country. And that wasn't an isolated incident. Time and again, middlemen have been caught buying up large quantities of these RM2.50 polybags locally, then quietly ferrying them across borders where the same oil can fetch higher prices. In economic terms, it's textbook arbitrage: when a commodity is cheaper on this side of the border and pricier just miles away. Kudos to our enforcement agencies for their vigilance and successful busts of these smugglers. But the system remains vulnerable to leakage. Smuggling might not be rampant in every state, but even small-scale syphoning adds up fast – and it hurts the very group the subsidy is meant to help. From frying pan to fake prayer bottle If smuggling is the external leak, repackaging and resale is the internal bleed. The Star on June 26, 2025 reported that the Penang Hindu Association raised the alarm that subsidised cooking oil was being rebottled and sold as 'prayer oil'. And we're not talking a subtle price hike, either. One particular brand was being peddled at RM8.20 per litre as 'holy' lamp oil – an eye-popping 228% holy markup. How do they get away with this? By literally 'disguising' the cooking oil. Reports suggest some unscrupulous suppliers commingle or mix the subsidised cooking oil with paraffin-based lamp oil, add dyes and perfumes, and sell it as doppelgänger 100% prayer oil. Let's call it what it is: at best, a waste of taxpayer-funded aid repackaged for profit under a spiritual guise. Using oil in rituals is one thing – flipping subsidised oil for cash with a holy label is another. So, what can we do? For starters, push for clearer packaging and labelling, and spread the word – before someone accidentally baptises their chicken curry in altar oil. And we need policymakers to drive for smarter subsidy systems. Red palm oil caught in the crossfire Amid this oily confusion, red palm oil (RPO) has become an innocent casualty. RPO is a vibrant, nutrient-rich edible oil pressed from palm fruit – in fact, it contains 15 times more pro-vitamin A carotenoids than carrots and 300 times more than tomatoes. It's richly packed with antioxidants. It's a genuinely healthy cooking oil. Yet, thanks to product differentiation, RPO can get mistaken for non-edible prayer oil (and vice versa). The bottles look similar, the oil inside looks similar, and in many small shops they're even shelved side by side. The result? Reports of unsuspecting customers sometimes grabbing the wrong bottle – with cringe-worthy outcomes. Imagine someone trying to cook dinner with paraffin lamp oil, or someone pouring nutritious RPO into their temple lamp. These mix-ups do happen, and they are dangerous not to mention bad public relation for palm oil. A few simple fixes could prevent oily mix-ups: use distinct bottles for non-edible oils – bright caps, odd shapes, anything that says 'not for cooking'. Print bold, clear warnings in multiple languages and store edible and non-edible oils separately. These small steps could spare us more tales of curries in lamp oil. Government digital intervention In response to the growing concerns especially over subsidised oil leakages, the government is eyeing a high-technology solution. The Star on June 28, 2025, announced that the authorities will start to roll out a mobile application – eCoss – to monitor the sale of subsidised cooking oil. How would this work? Essentially, retailers would be required to log buyers' details into the app every time someone purchases the subsidised oil. Buyers must download the eCoss application and scan a QR code when purchasing subsidised oil. This data would feed into the Domestic Trade Ministry's system, allowing them to track who is buying subsidised oil, how often and in what quantity. It's a welcome move into the digital age. With proper implementation, such tools can enhance transparency and enforcement. However, the success of this app will hinge on a few things: retailer cooperation, system reliability (let's hope it doesn't crash come festive grocery rush) and public trust in data privacy. Case for shared responsibility and reform Strong enforcement is key – random audits, supply chain tracking and real penalties for tampering with subsidised goods. But public education matters too. Consumers need to know the difference between red palm oil, prayer oil and subsidised cooking oil. Ministries, non-governmental organisations, religious bodies and industry groups can all help through posters, social media and community workshops. Keeping the system honest takes everyone. At its heart, the subsidised cooking oil saga isn't just about cooking, religion or economics – it's about safeguarding public trust. The government rolled out this subsidy to benefit the rakyat and it's on all of us to make sure that trust isn't betrayed. Policymakers must design smarter, leak-proof subsidy systems. Enforcement agencies must uphold the rules without fear or favour. Industry players should distribute and label products responsibly. And we consumers should stay alert – report abuses, avoid selfish hoarding and yes, double-check the labels on that oil bottle in our hand. The government must also re-evaluate whether the responsibility of sustaining the Coss should fall solely on the palm oil sector via the WPL – originally intended for this purpose, though currently channelled into consolidated tax revenue. If the subsidy is to continue, it's only fair that all sectors benefiting from windfall profits share in the responsibility of supporting the rakyat. A declining and unsustainable oil palm sector will affect Coss in future. While plugging loopholes and going digital are great, we should also ask a bigger question: is there a smarter way to deliver this subsidy altogether? Many policy experts have long suggested targeted assistance – basically, give the subsidy to people in cash rather than to the product. In other words, directly support B40 households and let them buy cooking oil at market price. This way, the benefit is in the recipient's wallet, not in the oil packet. No more arbitrage opportunity, no more black market. We must do more to make sure subsidised cooking oil feeds B40 families and not fuels fraud. The only thing worse than bland food is knowing your stir-fry lit a shrine while someone else pocketed your tax ringgit. Joseph Tek Choon Yee is the past-president of the Malaysian Estate Owners Association and former chief executive of the Malaysian Palm Oil Association. The views expressed here are the writer's own.
The Sun
04-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Keeping claypots simmering
IN an age of air-fryers and non-stick pans, the Penang Hindu Association (PHA) is bringing the spotlight back to a centuries-old cooking method while inviting the public to get their hands dirty in the process. At this year's George Town Heritage Celebration (GTHC), visitors can revisit the art of claypot making at PHA's booth, where traditional Indian pottery will be on display and in action. 'This is the 10th consecutive year that we are participating in the GTHC,' said PHA president Datuk P Murugiah. Among the activities at the booth is a live pottery workshop where visitors can try their hand at making claypots and walk away with a memorable experience. In addition, visitors can get creative by painting claypots under the guidance of experts. Traditional clay-crafted kitchenware will also be on display, alongside a photo booth to capture that perfect moment where heritage meets modernity. PHA's booth, themed 'Clay Festival: The Revival of Pottery Life', is not just about preserving a dying art but celebrating the health and lifestyle benefits of using earthenware. Claypot-making has been a part of Indian civilisation since the Indus Valley era, where earthen vessels were used for storing grain, cooking and religious rituals. The method involves using all-natural elements, such as earth, water, air and fire, and has been passed down through generations with only slight variations in shape, design and function. The claypot making workshop will be led by Reguraj Devaraj, 49, managing director of K Devaraja Pottery, a family business now in its fifth generation. Reguraj said his ancestors landed in Malaya in the 19th century. 'They came from India in search of good clay to make a living. Then, they started making claypots and holy items like ghee lamps. During colonisation, they moved and established their business here (in Malaya), which eventually grew into the company and a legacy we continue until today. 'Traditional Indian claypots, used since ancient times, offer many health benefits. They reduce oil in your food by absorbing the excess and help lower the risk of bacterial growth during cooking. It is also made without harmful chemicals such as lead. These pots are a safe, natural and healthy choice for everyday meals,' said Reguraj. While many Malaysians might recall claypots from their childhood kitchens, Reguraj said that first-time users today often come with questions and some curiosity. 'People familiar with Indian claypots love them for their health benefits and the rich, earthy taste they give food. New users may be hesitant, worried about breakage or unsure how to prepare the pot. But most end up enjoying it for the natural, authentic flavour it brings.' Pointing to a younger generation that may be more familiar with TikTok recipes than traditional cookware, Reguraj stressed the relevance of keeping the knowledge of making traditional claypots alive, as it is a valuable part of Indian culture. He lamented that while claypots were used daily by earlier generations, they have become a forgotten gem. And although today's users prefer non-stick convenience, they should still understand and appreciate the roots of their traditions. 'I am not saying they must use claypots daily, but they should value them and help keep this cultural identity alive.' During the George Town Heritage event, Reguraj and his team will demonstrate claypot-making from scratch using the authentic traditional and modern techniques. The booth will also include a display of clay kitchenware, claypot painting sessions and a photo corner. However, beneath the festive surface lies a strong message about preservation and authenticity, to safeguard the cultural and practical value of claypot-making. Curry pots. Reguraj also hopes to change mindsets through the event so that the claypot can be recognised as a 'rare cultural gem' that is appreciated and passed down to future generations. 'The authentic way of making claypots is important because adding modern patterns and methods can change the pot completely. It loses its original form, purpose and health benefits,' he said. Reguraj added that modern claypot production often uses harmful chemicals and uncertified processes to make them last longer, and that is not how it should be done. He pointed out that people nowadays want a pot that lasts forever to save money. However, that goes against the traditional practice. The passionate claypot maker also invites those interested in learning more to reach out at the booth to arrange a follow-up session. 'Expert guidance will be available to help you learn more,' he said. GTHC 2025 takes place tomorrow from 5pm to 10pm at the Kitchen on Jalan Kapitan Keling at the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site.
Asia News Network
03-07-2025
- Business
- Asia News Network
Subsidised cooking oil allegedly sold for prayer use in Malaysia's Penang
KUALA LUMPUR – Penang Hindu Association claims unscrupulous suppliers making profits of over 200% by repackaging product Penang Hindu Association (PHA) is claiming that some bottles containing prayer oil, sold at nearly RM9 per litre, are actually just ordinary, subsidised Malaysian cooking oil, which can be purchased for RM2.50 per litre. Its president Datuk P. Murugiah urged the authorities to clamp down against the practice. He claimed that unscrupulous suppliers were making a profit margin of over 228%, adding that subsidised cooking oil was meant for low-income households. 'We found that most of the 'prayer oil' sold in the state, especially in temple supply stores, is actually repackaged subsidised cooking oil, originally priced at RM2.50 per litre. 'One particular brand is now being sold at RM8.20 per litre in the open market as oil for ritual use. Some brands cost even more. 'The practice, if left unchecked, will defeat the purpose of the subsidy meant for the B40 group,' he added. Introduced to help keep daily essentials affordable, Malaysia's subsidised cooking oil comes in locally packed polybags. Murugiah said any loophole in the system would put pressure on domestic oil supplies and affect both consumers and honest retailers alike. 'The issue is not new. In 2023, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry caught a trader repackaging subsidised cooking oil into different bottles and selling it as prayer oil at high prices. 'Some suppliers even resorted to using colour dyes in the oil to deceive the authorities. 'We hope the ministry will look into this and carry out frequent spot checks at retail outlets, especially those selling religious paraphernalia,' he said. Murugiah said the association also wanted clearer labelling regulations. 'We urge the ministry to compel prayer oil traders to declare the source of their products and clearly list the retail price on the packaging. 'This is in line with labelling laws and to ensure consumers are not misled,' he said. He added that the association also supported a nationwide rollout of the Cooking Oil Price Stabilisation Scheme (eCOSS), designed to track the supply of subsidised oil from refinery to retail. He said eCOSS could plug the loopholes currently exploited by rogue suppliers. He urged consumers to stay alert and check the source of the oil purchased for prayer use. 'It is important not to be misled by unscrupulous parties,' he added. Penang Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) director S. Jegan said action would be taken against anyone involved in the misuse of subsidised goods. He said the ministry was consistently monitoring the use of cooking oil, not only supply issues, but also its misuse, including for religious rituals as highlighted by PHA. 'However, we have not received any official complaints on this matter.
The Star
02-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
‘Subsidised cooking oil sold for prayer use'
Murugiah is urging the authorities to compel prayer oil traders to declare the source of their products and list the retail price in their packaging. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star Penang Hindu Association claims unscrupulous suppliers making profits of over 200% by repackaging product Penang Hindu Association (PHA) is claiming that some bottles containing prayer oil, sold at nearly RM9 per litre, are actually just ordinary, subsidised Malaysian cooking oil, which can be purchased for RM2.50 per litre. Its president Datuk P. Murugiah urged the authorities to clamp down against the practice. He claimed that unscrupulous suppliers were making a profit margin of over 228%, adding that subsidised cooking oil was meant for low-income households. 'We found that most of the 'prayer oil' sold in the state, especially in temple supply stores, is actually repackaged subsidised cooking oil, originally priced at RM2.50 per litre. 'One particular brand is now being sold at RM8.20 per litre in the open market as oil for ritual use. Some brands cost even more. 'The practice, if left unchecked, will defeat the purpose of the subsidy meant for the B40 group,' he added. Introduced to help keep daily essentials affordable, Malaysia's subsidised cooking oil comes in locally packed polybags. Murugiah said any loophole in the system would put pressure on domestic oil supplies and affect both consumers and honest retailers alike. 'The issue is not new. In 2023, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry caught a trader repackaging subsidised cooking oil into different bottles and selling it as prayer oil at high prices. 'Some suppliers even resorted to using colour dyes in the oil to deceive the authorities. 'We hope the ministry will look into this and carry out frequent spot checks at retail outlets, especially those selling religious paraphernalia,' he said. Murugiah said the association also wanted clearer labelling regulations. 'We urge the ministry to compel prayer oil traders to declare the source of their products and clearly list the retail price on the packaging. 'This is in line with labelling laws and to ensure consumers are not misled,' he said. He added that the association also supported a nationwide rollout of the Cooking Oil Price Stabilisation Scheme (eCOSS), designed to track the supply of subsidised oil from refinery to retail. He said eCOSS could plug the loopholes currently exploited by rogue suppliers. He urged consumers to stay alert and check the source of the oil purchased for prayer use. 'It is important not to be misled by unscrupulous parties,' he added. Penang Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) director S. Jegan said action would be taken against anyone involved in the misuse of subsidised goods. He said the ministry was consistently monitoring the use of cooking oil, not only supply issues, but also its misuse, including for religious rituals as highlighted by PHA. 'However, we have not received any official complaints on this matter. 'Enforcement officers will continue to act under all relevant laws, including those governing subsidised goods,' Jegan said.
The Star
26-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Penang Hindu Association claims subsidised cooking oil being repackaged as prayer oil
GEORGE TOWN: In an effort to prevent the misuse of subsidised cooking oil, the Penang Hindu Association (PHA) is urging consumers to always check the prices and the source of prayer oil before buying. In a statement, PHA president Datuk claimed that most of the oil used in Hindu praying rituals and temples is actually being misused and derived from subsidised cooking oil meant for low-income households. "We found out that most of the 'prayer oil' sold in the state – especially in (prayer material) supply stores – is actually repackaged subsidised cooking oil," he claimed. He added that subsidised oil, which is priced at RM2.50 per kilogramme, is sold at as high as RM8.20 per litre for use in rituals. "In a recent price survey carried out by PHA, a particular prayer oil brand is listed at RM8.20 per litre – which is a mind-blowing 228% profit from the actual subsidised price and some brands of prayer oils cost even more," he said in a statement on Thursday (June 26). He said this practice, if left unchecked, will defeat the purpose of the subsidy meant for the B40 group and when this oil is rerouted into religious retail at such inflated prices, the benefit is lost-and someone else pockets the profit. Murugiah said the issue is not a new problem and just two years ago in 2023, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry caught a trader repackaging subsidised cooking oil in different bottles and selling them as prayer oil at high prices. He said some suppliers would even use dyes in the oils in order to hoodwink authorities. He said PHA is calling on the ministry to tighten enforcement and conduct frequent spot checks at retail outlets, especially those selling religious paraphernalia. "We urge the ministry to compel prayer oil traders to declare the source of their products and list the retail price clearly on the packaging. This is in line with labelling laws and will ensure consumers are not misled," he said. He said the association also supports a full nationwide rollout of the Cooking Oil Price Stabilisation Scheme System (eCoss), which is designed to track the supply of subsidised oil from refinery to retail. He believes eCoss can plug the loopholes currently exploited by rogue suppliers and he also urged consumers to stay alert and check the source of the oil they buy for prayer use. Meanwhile, Penang Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry director S. Jegan said they consistently monitor all activities involving the use of subsidised cooking oil to prevent misuse or diversion. He said monitoring is not limited to supply but also covers all related activities, including the use of cooking oil in religious rituals such as temple offerings by Hindu devotees, as mentioned by the PHA. While no official complaints have been received so far on the matter, he said the department continues to carry out its duties, including those concerning the misuse of subsidised goods. "The ministry will not hesitate to take action against any party found involved in the misappropriation of subsidised items. We urge anyone with information regarding such misuse to report it to us. This will help facilitate prompt enforcement and, at the same time, prevent unnecessary panic or public concern that could lead to disharmony," he said. – Bernama
