SANDAKAN: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) seized 27,495 packs of suspected counterfeit branded playing cards worth an estimated RM55,079.20 during simultaneous raids on three business premises here on October 7.
The operation, conducted at about noon, involved three enforcement teams from the KPDN Sandakan branch. Representatives of the trademark owners were also present to help verify the authenticity of the seized products.
“Traders must comply with all laws and regulations enforced by KPDN and ensure that branded goods sold at their premises are sourced from legitimate suppliers,” said KPDN Sandakan District Enforcement Chief Joe Azmi Jamil in a statement on Friday.
According to him, the three cases are being investigated under the Trademarks Act 2019 (Act 815). Under the Act, individuals convicted of a first offence may face a fine of up to RM10,000 for each counterfeit item, imprisonment of up to three years, or both. For subsequent offences, the penalty may increase to a fine of up to RM20,000 per item, imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
Companies and other corporate entities may face fines of up to RM15,000 per item for a first offence and up to RM30,000 per item for subsequent offences, Joe Azmi added.
He said KPDN would intensify enforcement operations and take firm action against those involved in selling or distributing counterfeit goods that infringe intellectual property rights and mislead consumers.
Members of the public with information on suspected trader misconduct can lodge complaints through the following channels – WhatsApp: 019-848 8000, Online: https://eaduan.kpdn.gov.my, Call centre: 1-800-886-800, Mobile application: Ez ADU KPDN. – James Leong
KPDN Sandakan enforcement officers check a premise during Wednesday’s raids.
