{
  "id": 14726108,
  "title": "NST Leader: A level playing field in digital commerce",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/15/nst-leader-a-level-playing-field-in-digital-commerce",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-15T15:30:15.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/opinion/leaders/2026/10/1556457/nst-leader-level-playing-field-digital-commerce"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "With Malaysians increasingly opting for online shopping instead of traditional brick-and-mortar stores, instances of consumers being shortchanged or cheated on e-commerce platforms are becoming more common. This has prompted the government to draft the E-Commerce Bill in hopes of addressing these concerns. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Armizan Mohd Ali revealed that the proposed law includes a licensing regime for both domestic and overseas e-commerce platforms that serve Malaysian consumers. This move aims to ensure accountability and consumer protection in the rapidly growing digital commerce sector.\n\nConsumers should not face unsafe products, misleading claims, fraudulent sellers, or unresolved disputes solely because transactions occur online. Online platforms must no longer merely act as intermediaries but should also bear responsibility for the sellers on their platforms. Licensing should establish clear obligations rather than simply be a compliance exercise. Not only should Malaysian consumers be protected, but also the local online platforms themselves. Foreign platforms should not be granted special privileges that exempt them from Malaysian regulations.\n\nWhile licensing and other business regulations are necessary, the government must be cautious of over-regulation that could burden businesses with excessive compliance costs. Strong oversight is important, but the regulatory framework should not create disproportionate challenges for smaller businesses or hinder legitimate domestic entrepreneurs from reaching online customers. Furthermore, aligning our e-commerce laws with international models could be beneficial, especially if Malaysian platforms eventually expand globally. As commerce continues to shift online, timely updates to the rules for digital commerce will not only enhance consumer confidence in online shopping security but also create a more level playing field for both consumers and Malaysian businesses.",
  "summary": "MORE and more Malaysians now shop online rather than in brick-and-mortar shops, departmental stores and malls.",
  "key_points": [
    "Proposed E-Commerce Bill aims to protect consumers and regulate online platforms.",
    "Licensing regime for domestic and overseas e-commerce platforms to ensure accountability.",
    "Balance needed between regulation and avoiding overburdening Malaysian businesses."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}