Severe Penalties for Violating Gas Distribution Ordinance
KUCHING (July 30) – In a significant move to uphold the law regarding the distribution of subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Malaysia, the Sri Aman Sessions Court fined a 39-year-old man RM5,000. The individual, identified as John Telajan from Seratok, faced this penalty for transporting eight subsidised LPG cylinders without a licence.
The Offense and Legal Proceedings
Judge A. Akhiruddin Acho handed down the sentence after John pleaded guilty to the charge under Section 20(1)(a) of the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (Chapter 72). The law stipulates severe penalties for such offenses, with fines up to RM200,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both upon conviction.
Incident Details and Arrest
John Telajan committed the offense on April 12, 2023, at around 4.55 pm. The incident occurred in Ulu Paku, Sungai Putong, Simanggang, Sri Aman. A team from the General Operations Force (GOF) detained John at the specified location and seized the eight LPG cylinders found in his saloon car. Investigations revealed that John was transporting the LPG cylinders without the necessary licence, and the car used in the act was registered under his name.
Court’s Decision and Forfeiture
The court ordered the forfeiture of the seized LPG cylinders and John’s car to the prosecution for disposal. During the proceedings, John, unrepresented by legal counsel, pleaded for leniency. He cited his cooperative behavior during the investigation and his responsibilities as the sole provider for his wife and two children, aged 12 and 1, as reasons for a reduced sentence. John disclosed that he has been employed at a palm oil company in Indonesia since 2010, earning a daily wage of RM30.
Ministry’s Involvement and Prosecution
The proceedings saw the presence of several officers from the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication’s Enforcement and Legal Division. The case was prosecuted by DPP Ronald Felix Hardin and prosecuting officer Simon Engka Crown.
Legal Implications and Future Considerations
This case underscores the strict enforcement of the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, reflecting the government’s stance on illegal transportation and distribution of subsidised resources. The substantial fines and potential imprisonment serve as a deterrent to those contemplating similar offenses. The ordinance aims to regulate the distribution of gas, ensuring that subsidies are appropriately managed and preventing illegal profiteering.
Community Impact and Awareness
The community in Sri Aman and surrounding areas must be aware of the legal requirements and severe penalties associated with the unauthorized transport of subsidised LPG cylinders. This case highlights the importance of adhering to regulations to avoid legal consequences and contribute to the fair distribution of subsidised resources.
Conclusion
The Sri Aman Sessions Court’s decision to fine John Telajan RM5,000 emphasizes the critical nature of compliance with gas distribution laws in Malaysia. As authorities continue to monitor and enforce these regulations, the public must remain informed and vigilant to prevent similar incidents in the future.