Fahmi: Govt may regulate e-commerce platforms
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Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has revealed that the government is considering a regulatory framework for e-commerce platforms, in response to complaints about product safety and halal compliance. Specifically, issues have been raised regarding the unregulated halal status of food items sold on several e-commerce platforms. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has instructed the Finance Ministry and Communications Ministry to investigate regulatory measures, including registration requirements.
Fahmi suggested that all electrical and electronic goods sold online should carry Sirim certification, while food products must adhere to Malaysian halal standards. The authorities are also looking into foreign platforms that operate without local registration or a physical presence in Malaysia. According to MCMC data, 1,964 complaints involving e-commerce transactions, including online scams, had been recorded since January of the previous year, with the commission currently handling 118 cases.
The ministry intends to hold engagement sessions with e-commerce platforms, utilizing its experience in implementing the licensing framework for social media platforms. Additionally, the need for regulatory oversight was emphasized at the recent TikTok Shop Summit, where Prime Minister Anwar called for the rapid enactment of an e-commerce bill to bolster the digital economy. The legislation would enhance business ease while strengthening regulatory oversight as the sector expands.
On a separate note, Malaysia and Brunei have agreed to enhance cooperation in halal trade following Prime Minister Anwar's visit to Bandar Seri Begawan. Meanwhile, Fahmi stated that the MCMC is collaborating with telecommunications service providers to ensure uninterrupted cellular and Internet connectivity at the Sepang International Circuit, ahead of the upcoming Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.
The MCMC will work alongside organizers and venue operators to improve network coverage and minimize cell congestion for the large crowd attending the event.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
