Govt reviewing law to formulate anti-ticket scalping framework

The Malaysian domestic trade and cost of living ministry is examining Section 15(1) of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 to develop a framework to combat ticket scalping, Deputy Minister Fuziah Salleh announced today. The review is also looking at laws from countries like Australia, Ireland, Canada, Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore to determine the most effective approach for Malaysia.

Section 15(1) of Act 723 stipulates that the minister must "prescribe the mechanism to determine that profit is unreasonably high, and different types of mechanisms may be prescribed to cater for different conditions and circumstances as the minister deems fit". Fuziah stated that the proposed legislation, set to be implemented next year, aims to define scalping and regulate bulk online ticket purchases. This could include tackling ticket sales facilitated by bots or individuals that result in secondary sales and scalping.

Fuziah also mentioned the possibility of verifying buyers' and ticket holders' identities, and evaluating whether existing price control and anti-profiteering provisions are suitable. She was responding to Isam Isa (BN-Tampin), who inquired about initiatives to create legislation to tackle ticket scalping.

The ministry is also investigating enforcement challenges to ensure the legislation covers various types of ticket transactions, especially for one-off events. Fuziah emphasized the ministry's intention to enhance consumer advocacy and collaborate with event organizers to foster more transparent ticket sales. This will involve clearer purchase terms and conditions.