PETALING JAYA: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry is thoroughly investigating the gold and jewellery sector through its Ops Bling crackdown to ensure integrity, purity and consumer protection.
With the Hari Raya season approaching and a surge in weddings anticipated later this year, the ministry’s enforcement director-general Datuk Azman Adam said they have been doubling efforts to conduct thorough checks and enforce compliance, ensuring that only genuine and high-quality products reach consumers.
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“This year, we have ramped up precious metal purity enforcement through the launch of Ops Bling, which has been made a key performance indicator (KPI).
“The main target of Ops Bling is to specifically monitor premises selling jewellery made of precious metals nationwide to ensure traders comply fully with the legal provisions enforced by the ministry,” said Azman.
He added that the ministry has bolstered its ability to inspect metals with the acquisition of precious metal purity testing equipment to improve enforcement efficiency.
“Each set includes an XRF (X-ray fluorescence) device, a survey meter, a locking shielded carrying case and precious metal reference standards for gold, silver and tungsten.
“The XRF device is a non-destructive tool that tests the purity of precious metals across over 20 types of elements, including gold, silver and bronze,” he said.
Since the XRF device is classified as a radiation apparatus under the Atomic Energy Licensing Act, Azman said the ministry has secured a license and appointed an officer as the person in charge.
“The ministry has also designated relevant radiation officers, recognised by the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB).
“They have all undergone training and passed examinations administered by the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and the AELB, ensuring that our operations meet stringent safety standards,” he added.
Federation of Goldsmiths and Jewellers Association of Malaysia (FGJAM) president Datuk Chiah Hock Yew said periodic checks by the ministry benefit the gold and jewellery sector.
“They ensure retailers handle the sources of goods and inventory seriously, ensuring that only quality products are sold. This is beneficial for both the industry and consumers.”
Chiah noted that gold jewellers have SOPs in place for buying back gold.
“In gold shops, we inform consumers about any potential loss if the gold isn’t pure or needs to undergo the acid test.
“If they agree, we proceed; if not, we return their gold. It’s a transparent process with no coercion.”
He stressed the importance of retaining the original receipt when selling gold back, especially to the same shop, as it could fetch a better price.
Chiah also advised consumers to choose reputable retailers.
“While new entrepreneurs offer attractive designs, if prices are too low with no workmanship charge, be cautious.
“This is crucial. Ensure the platform and seller are reputable. Normally, there should be a workmanship charge, and prices will vary.
“Consumers must educate themselves to avoid exploitation or greed,” he said.
Tomei managing director Datuk Ng Yih Pyng, who is also an FGJAM advisor said the ministry inspections focus on crucial areas such as weight verification and gold purity.
“The weighing scale must have Sirim approval for calibration and checking.
“Our staff send it for periodic testing, and inspectors verify it,” said Ng.
He noted that the traditional acid test remains the most reliable method, especially when significant discrepancies are observed.
“Retail issues are rare, but online purchases can be problematic due to the anonymity of sellers.
“Buying from reputable sellers usually doesn’t pose much of a problem, as they often also buy back gold.”
Ng noted that the gold sector is disciplined, with various tests conducted to ensure purity.
“Gold is a transparent market. The sector is rather disciplined and self-regulated.
“Our way of doing business and reputation will affect customer confidence and trust,” he said, adding that association members are responsible and self-regulated, requiring proper acid reports from distributors.
While more younger consumers are comfortable buying expensive items online, including gold jewellery, Ng advised consumers to only buy from reputable sources.
“Don’t be swayed by unusually low prices. I’ve had gold purchases of up to RM10,000 per transaction online. When customers have more confidence and trust in you, the transaction value increases over time,” he said.