SHAH ALAM, El Sky News – The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has announced that the Cooking Oil Stabilization Scheme System (eCOSS) will continue to serve as the primary platform for purchasing subsidized cooking oil in polybags. This decision remains in effect as the ministry carefully evaluates future digital alternatives that aim to make the process even more convenient for the public.
Deputy Minister Datuk Dr. Fuziah Salleh shared positive progress regarding the system’s adoption, noting that a total of 1,658,480 users have registered on the eCOSS application as of Thursday afternoon. Since its introduction on April 1, the system has played a vital role in ensuring that government subsidies reach their intended recipients.
A Commitment to Targeted Support The primary function of the eCOSS system is to safeguard national resources by ensuring that subsidized essentials are prioritized for citizens. By digitizing the transaction process, the ministry has successfully created a “safety net” that prevents the leakage of subsidies to unauthorized parties or large-scale commercial entities.
“The current system is essential for maintaining the integrity of our subsidy distribution,” Dr. Fuziah stated during a session with the media. “While we are fully committed to finding even simpler ways for people to access these goods, we must ensure that any new method is practical for everyone, including our local retailers.”
Balancing Innovation and Accessibility The ministry is currently researching various alternatives to enhance the user experience. One discussed option involves using the MyKad (National Identity Card) for verification, similar to existing welfare programs. However, Dr. Fuziah emphasized the importance of being inclusive:
- Infrastructure Readiness: Many small neighborhood grocery stores and rural “mom-and-pop” shops do not yet have the digital terminals required for MyKad processing.
- Retailer Support: The government aims to avoid placing extra financial or technical burdens on small business owners who serve as the backbone of the community.
- Continuous Improvement: KPDN is actively listening to public feedback to refine the current application, ensuring it remains a helpful tool for Malaysian households.
A Vision for Transparent Governance The ongoing use of eCOSS reflects a broader national strategy to utilize technology for more transparent and efficient governance. By accurately tracking the movement of subsidized cooking oil, the ministry can prevent shortages and ensure that supply remains stable across all regions of the country.
As Malaysia moves toward more targeted subsidy models, the success of platforms like eCOSS serves as a foundation for future innovations. KPDN has assured the public that any updates to the system will be designed with the user’s ease of use at the forefront, ensuring that the transition to a more modern economy is smooth and beneficial for all.
(Leakim Otid)
