Full Breakdown
Malaysia Enforces Ban on Foreign Purchase of Subsidised Cooking Oil
1/30/2026, 12:47:36 AM
New Regulations Set to Take Effect
Starting March 1, 2026, Malaysia will implement regulations prohibiting foreigners from purchasing subsidised packaged cooking oil. This decision was announced by Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, the Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, during a session in the Dewan Rakyat, Malaysia's Lower House of Parliament, on January 29, 2026. The regulations will be enacted under the Control of Supplies Regulations, as authorized by Section 6 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
Mechanisms for Enforcement
The enforcement of this ban will be facilitated by the Cooking Oil Price Stabilisation Scheme (eCOSS), which digitally tracks transactions throughout the distribution chain. Armizan explained that the eCOSS system will help curb the diversion and smuggling of subsidised cooking oil, which has been a persistent issue. The system is designed to ensure that only Malaysian citizens can purchase these subsidised products, utilizing identity card details for verification.
The eCOSS application has been gradually rolled out since May 2025, beginning in Putrajaya and expanding to other states, including Johor. The application aims to streamline the purchasing process while providing support for senior citizens and low-income groups who may lack access to mobile technology.
Implications for Local Households
In response to concerns regarding the impact on local households, Armizan clarified that there is currently no set quota for the amount of subsidised cooking oil that citizens can purchase. The calculation for consumption is based on an average of 1.5 kilograms per capita, and households can buy more than this amount through different family members without restrictions.
Criticism & Opposition
While the government has positioned this ban as a necessary measure to protect local resources, there are concerns regarding its implementation. Retailers have previously raised practical issues related to monitoring and enforcement, questioning how effectively the ban can be enforced in practice.
Official Statements & Responses
Armizan emphasized the importance of the eCOSS system in enforcing the ban, stating, “With a system that only allows citizens to make purchases that is integrated with identity card details, it will enable retailers and enforcers to implement the ban effectively.” He also reassured that the ministry is working closely with the Attorney General’s Chambers to ensure the regulations are properly gazetted.
What's Next
As the March 1 enforcement date approaches, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living will continue to enhance the eCOSS management and prepare for the full implementation of the ban. The ministry's collaboration with the Ministry of Finance to integrate additional purchasing options using the MyKad is also underway, which may further streamline the process for eligible citizens.
