I fully support the implementation of the eCOSS (Cooking Oil Price Stabilization Scheme System), a digital system introduced by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Malaysia (KPDN) to manage the distribution of 1kg subsidised cooking oil priced at RM2.50 per pack.
The system tracks transactions from manufacturers to retailers, with the aim of improving efficiency, enhancing transparency, and preventing leakages and smuggling. Currently, it is implemented at 99 Speedmart and selected other retailers (hope this is implemented to all retailers), and is easily accessible through MyDigitalID.
Once downloaded, users are required to register by providing the necessary particulars (it's easier to sign in with MyDigitalID. Upon completion, the app can be used by scanning the QR code at the cashier. The system will then record and display the number of packs purchased, along with the seller’s details, date, and time of the transaction.
This 1kg subsidised cooking oil much like subsidised rice was originally intended for the B40 group. Previously, clear notices were displayed limiting purchases to two packs per family. However, I have observed that the scheme is now effectively open to everyone.
Unfortunately, this has led to abuse by certain parties. Some individuals purchase up to five packs a day, and then send their spouses and children to buy more. As a result, shelves are cleared quickly, making it difficult for others especially those who genuinely need it to obtain even a single pack.
To be fair, many Malaysians still follow the rules and typically keep no more than two packs at home.
However, I have also witnessed cases where large quantities of these subsidised oil packs are purchased and later resold illegally at prices ranging from RM3.00 to RM5.00 per pack. This practice became particularly rampant during the MCO period and continues to be a concern. (which I have highlighted so many times)
That said, no system is ever perfect.
1) On 7 February 2026 at around 10.00 a.m., I encountered an elderly woman clearly from the B40 group and possibly a foreign worker who was struggling to purchase even one pack of subsidised cooking oil. She did not have mobile internet access, likely due to affordability issues. Out of basic humanity, empathy, and conscience, I went into 99 Speedmart and purchased one pack for her without asking for any payment in return. This raises an important issue.
While the system is fair for Malaysians, how does it accommodate foreign workers or tourists holding international passports? Are they able to register using their passport numbers? If not, should there be an alternative mechanism allowing them to purchase cooking oil at a different, non-subsidised price similar to the differentiated rates applied in public transportation, public hospitals, and private clinics between Malaysians and foreigners?
2) Another concern relates to enforcement. If three individuals from the same family each purchase three packs separately, how does the system detect that they belong to the same household? Without an effective way to identify such patterns, the risk of systematic abuse remains.
3) And what about NGOs or individuals who buys a significant amount to donate to the needies?
Despite these challenges, I would still like to congratulate KPDN on this initiative. The move towards a digital, traceable system is a step in the right direction. With further refinement and practical safeguards, eCOSS has the potential to become a fairer and more effective subsidy management system for all.
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