March 2023 saw a significant multi-agency enforcement action led by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (MDTCL) at one of Kuala Lumpur’s most recognizable tourist spots, Petaling Street (KL’s Chinatown). Known for its bustling atmosphere and vibrant markets, Petaling Street is also infamous for its rampant counterfeit trade.
On March 5 and March 20, 2023, MDTCL Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (KLCH), the Immigration Department of Malaysia, the Royal Malaysian Police, and representatives from brand owners including GTS, launched a blitz operation codenamed “Operation Cobra.” The operation involved nearly 80 personnel and resulted in the arrest of dozens of traders for offenses ranging from invalid travel documents to selling counterfeit products. KL City Hall issued summonses to establishments operating without proper licenses, and anti-counterfeiting efforts led to raids on traders and warehouses. A variety of counterfeit goods, including footwear, apparel, luxury fashion leather, and fragrances from major international brands, were seized.
Adding to the public awareness, the raids were featured on the local reality crime series “999,” highlighting the intense efforts to crack down on counterfeit trade.
Kudos to MDTCL for effectively coordinating this multi-agency operation. Such decisive actions are crucial in maintaining the integrity of Kuala Lumpur’s shopping haven, and we look forward to more operations like this in the future.
#BrandProtection #AntiCounterfeiting #INTA #Investigation #IACC #Enforcement #EuroCham
