Fahmi: Courier scams are everywhere, so let’s fight back with Parcel Shield

CHANGING NAMUR, Oct 31 — The Malaysian government is ramping up actions to shield citizens from fraudsters exploiting courier services and online shopping platforms via the introduction of the Parcel Shield anti-fraud program. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil unveiled the initiative today, stating it is spearheaded by the Postal Forum to enhance consumer awareness and vigilance against diverse methods of parcel delivery fraud, such as impersonating courier firms, bogus delivery alerts, deceitful links, and cash on delivery scams.

Fahmi noted that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and courier firms would collaborate to amplify efforts in raising consumer awareness of the threat of fraud through deceptive parcel delivery tactics. "The Communications Ministry and all courier companies will also extend this initiative through public awareness campaigns on radio and television to ensure Malaysians, especially consumers, enjoy the benefits of this program," Fahmi emphasized.

Speaking at a press conference following the Parcel Shield launch on National Courier Day 2026 at the Selangor International Trade Centre, Fahmi was flanked by MCMC Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, Postal Forum CEO Nurhafizah Hanifah, and Ronald Tan, president of the Malaysian Express Delivery Companies Association.

During the press conference, Fahmi disclosed that e-commerce platforms had identified 13,045 fraudulent, gambling, and service-related items from January 1 until yesterday. In line with the government's efforts to bolster measures against such activities, the Cabinet unanimously agreed in principle to amend the Postal Services Act 2012.

While the policy-level approval for the proposed amendment has been secured, Fahmi indicated that it will take several months to draft the amendment, considering the regulatory requirements involved. The Cabinet expects the proposed amendment to be submitted to Parliament as early as mid- or late next year.

Fahmi also highlighted that the proposed amendment to the act aims to address the welfare and protection aspects of courier workers, aligning with the government's initiatives to introduce the Postal Fund program, slated for launch in the first quarter of 2027. In this regard, Fahmi plans to convene MCMC and the Communications Ministry to engage all licensed delivery companies in the process of amending the Postal Services Act 2012.