26 Sept 2007�

JOHOR BARU: Several towns in Johor are facing a shortage of cooking oil, according to the Johor Consumer Protection Association.�

Its chairman T. Saravanan said Segamat, Batu Pahat, Kluang and Gelang Patah have problems getting the 1kg packet.

�We have had at least 50 complaints about the oil shortage,� he said, adding that the association suspected traders of hoarding 1kg packets to push the sale of bottled cooking oil.�

Provision shop owners here are complaining that it is becoming increasingly difficult to get extra stock of cooking oil.�

When contacted, Johor Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry chief enforcement officer Fahmi Kassim said checks confirmed that there was a �slight� shortage of 1kg packets in some shops.�

�But there will definitely be enough supply for the festive season,� he assured.�

Fahmi said that traders or consumers who found it hard to get cooking oil could contact the ministry toll free hotline at 1-800 886 800.�