PUTRAJAYA: More inclusive legislation for the e-commerce sector is expected in Parliament next year, says Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.
He said a study into existing legislation is underway and should be completed by next month.
The focus is on whether to amend the Electronic Commerce Act (Act 658).
He said there have been suggestions to either repeal Act 658 or create an improved version.
“These matters will be finalised once the study and town hall sessions are completed. The findings will then be presented to the Cabinet and the Attorney General’s Chambers,” he said.
“Personally, I would have preferred it to be tabled in Parliament by the end of this year, but due to factors beyond our control, it will be brought at the latest during the first sitting next year,” added Armizan at a press conference before a town hall session with e-commerce industry players on Thursday (July 17).
Armizan added that Act 658 needs a review to create regulations that protect consumers and ensure sector transparency.
“A review in 2012 looked into how complaints are channelled alongside consumer protection.
“However, the decision was to retain it as consumer protection regulations fall under the Consumer Protection Act,” he said.
He added that the e-commerce sector is one of the fastest growing, with a total income at RM1.22tril as of last year.
