Malaysia’s government has confirmed that its eCOSS mobile application is successfully reducing the diversion of subsidised cooking oil to the black market.
The initiative, which targets 1kg packet sales, has led to stable market supply and a significant drop in consumer complaints since its launch in May last year.
The effectiveness of the digital tracking system addresses a long-standing structural issue in Malaysia’s downstream energy and consumer goods sectors.
By curbing leakages, the policy helps maintain the integrity of the subsidy framework, preventing artificial shortages that often drive up informal market prices for edible oils.
This development aligns with broader regional efforts to digitise supply chains and improve subsidy targeting.
While global crude oil prices have fluctuated recently, domestic policy interventions like eCOSS provide a buffer against external volatility for Malaysian consumers.