PETALING JAYA: The proposed e-commerce Bill will tighten regulation on foreign platforms and cross-border trade, ensuring overseas merchants adhere to the same standards as Malaysian businesses, says Datuk Fuziah Salleh.
“The Bill is expected to address evolving cross-border business models, ensuring foreign platforms offering products to local consumers face the same obligations as local ones,” the Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister told The Star.
While the government remains committed to an open market economy that fosters trade, investment and innovation, Fuziah stressed that open trade does not mean leaving the market unregulated.
“What is important is that the government will not compromise with any party that abuses its market position or engages in trading practices that could undermine micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), local retailers and consumers in the country,” she said.
Fuziah reiterated that any digital platform operating in the country must face equal regulatory scrutiny.
“Therefore, any digital platform, whether local or foreign, should not be accorded different treatment if it engages in commercial activities involving consumers in Malaysia,” she added.
The ministry is currently refining the comprehensive regulatory framework, which has been under study since April 2024, ahead of its presentation to Parliament.
Once tabled, the proposed legislation will establish platform accountability and seller verification mechanisms while shielding consumers from fraud, counterfeit goods and misleading trade practices.
It will also enforce strict compliance with national product safety and labelling standards, giving regulators direct power to take enforcement action against non-compliant platforms.
