MCMC is requesting a tightly controlled e-commerce platform

KUCHING, Oct 8: E-commerce platform providers are asked to tighten controls on sellers and goods offered to ensure consumer safety as well as compliance with the law.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) explained that the matter was among those discussed during a roundtable session with e-commerce platform providers, relevant ministries and agencies, yesterday.

The session was held to coordinate action and follow-up actions against public concerns regarding consumer safety and law enforcement in the e-commerce ecosystem.

Among the measures of note are to strengthen the process of verifying seller identity as well as ensuring that the products offered comply with legal requirements and regulations of the authorities.

E-commerce platforms are also being asked to increase monitoring and use of technology to detect and take swift action against listings of prohibited, hazardous or illegal goods.

Meanwhile, the discussion also touched on the need to create a more balanced business environment between the online sector and physical premises.

Feedback from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as the retail sector was also taken into account in particular regarding the impact of e-commerce developments on businesses including its implications for the courier industry.

MCMC also stated that a more structured cooperation mechanism between platforms and government agencies is needed to ensure that the investigation process as well as enforcement actions can be implemented in accordance with established jurisdictions and laws.

According to the statement, MCMC will continue coordination with ministries, government agencies and industry parties to ensure that practical follow-up steps can be implemented in strengthening consumer protection, law enforcement and platform accountability.

The session was also attended by e-commerce platform providers including Grab, Lazada Malaysia/Alibaba, Facebook Marketplace, Pinduoduo, SHEIN, Shopee Malaysia and TikTok Shop.

The following were representatives of the Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Internal Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), Ministry of Health (KKM), Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Department of Royal Customs Malaysia (JKDM), Energy Commission, SIRIM Berhad, Company Commission Malaysia (SSM), Committee on Online Safety and CMCF.-STV