Counterfeit goods worth RM600,000 seized in Johor Bahru operation

Malaysian authorities have successfully dismantled a counterfeit goods operation in Johor Bahru, seizing suspected fake branded items valued at approximately RM600,000. The crackdown, conducted on Monday, targeted three separate business premises. The enforcement division of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in Putrajaya led the operation following a month-long investigation. During the raids, officers discovered a wide array of goods, including clothing, handbags, wallets, belts, and perfumes, all bearing trademarks without authorization from the registered owners. Officials confirmed that initial checks, in collaboration with representatives from the complainant, provided reasonable grounds to believe that violations of trademark laws had occurred. As a result of the operation, KPDN detained four Malaysian citizens, identified as the owners and caretakers of the premises, to assist with the investigation into their alleged involvement in managing these businesses. The case is currently being investigated under Section 102(1)(c) of the Trade Descriptions Act 2019. Individuals found guilty face potential fines of up to RM10,000 per counterfeit item or a maximum of three years imprisonment for a first offense. Subsequent offenses carry heavier penalties, with fines up to RM20,000 per item or up to five years imprisonment. For corporate offenders, the penalties include fines of up to RM15,000 per item for the first offense and up to RM30,000 per item for subsequent offenses. KPDN emphasized its commitment to intensifying enforcement activities and taking uncompromising action against any parties involved in the sale or distribution of counterfeit goods that infringe intellectual property rights and mislead the public.

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The inspection and initial verification with the complainant's representative found reasonable grounds to believe that a violation of the law related to trademarks had occurred.