KPDN Strengthens SOP for Investigation of Mixed Rice Issue with Cooperation from MARDI and Chemistry Department

PUTRAJAYA, 10 March 2025 – The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) will enhance the standard operating procedures (SOP) for investigations related to the mixing of imported white rice (BPI) with local white rice (BPT) in the market. This decision follows a meeting this afternoon with the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) to discuss findings concerning the issue.

The Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, stated that the ministry will enforce Section 5 of the Trade Descriptions Act (APD) 2011 to identify parties responsible for making false trade descriptions regarding the content, type, and labeling of rice. He emphasized that offenses such as the manipulation of rice sales through the swapping of packaging or labels, which could mislead consumers, will be dealt with firmly.

“The analysis of rice samples is a critical aspect in distinguishing between BPI and BPT. With MARDI’s expertise through its Rice DNA Fingerprinting Technology, KPDN will designate MARDI as the authoritative body in this effort,” he said in a post on his official Facebook page.

In addition, KPDN is collaborating with the Chemistry Department of Malaysia to ensure that the investigation SOP, which includes the management of rice sample exhibits and the admissibility of evidence in court, is implemented effectively. Datuk Armizan explained that this initiative is part of KPDN’s commitment to protecting consumer interests while supporting the agenda of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) in improving the nation’s paddy and rice industry.

“KPDN is committed to taking stern action against any party found guilty of offenses related to false trade descriptions in the issue of mixed rice,” he added.

He further noted that the meeting with MARDI and the strategic cooperation with the Chemistry Department are expected to enhance the effectiveness of enforcement under Act 730, thereby ensuring the integrity of the local rice market is maintained.