E-Commerce Bill set for first parliamentary sitting next year
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The E-Commerce Bill, designed to enhance accountability within online platforms and sellers, is scheduled to appear at Malaysia's inaugural parliamentary session next year, according to Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh. The bill is currently under revision. Currently, Malaysia lacks specific legislation governing e-commerce; instead, the government acts as a middleman between online entrepreneurs or sellers and marketplaces. This was mentioned after the conclusion of the Retail Access Programme here yesterday.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim disclosed, during the presentation of the 2027 Budget on October 9, that the government would introduce the bill to govern e-commerce platforms in Malaysia. Datuk Liew Bin, president of the Malaysia Retail Chain Association, emphasized the bill's significance in promoting a robust digital economy.
He affirmed that the bill would not oppose foreign investment or stifle e-commerce growth; rather, it would complement both online and brick-and-mortar retail. Online and physical retail can work together harmoniously, he stated.
The proposed legislation aims to clearly define the liabilities of e-commerce platforms and merchants, strengthen oversight of non-compliant goods, improve seller verification and dispute resolution systems, and ensure tax transparency to maintain a level playing field for cross-border sellers alongside Malaysian merchants. Fuziah further revealed that the Retail Access Programme has supported 1,862 entrepreneurs since its inception in 2023, providing a platform for micro-entrepreneurs to expand their businesses by showcasing their products and understanding supermarket requirements.
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