November 23, 2021 @ 3:37pm
KUALA LUMPUR: The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry has turned to digital platforms in its enforcement and advocacy efforts, following a shift in consumer trends, the Dewan Rakyat heard today.
Its Deputy Minister Datuk Rosol Wahid said consumer behaviour has seen a significant change where more online purchases made and selected in favour of physical shopping following restrictions in movements due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
He said the ministry aimed at educating consumers in making wise decisions on purchases and exercise their rights by providing easy access to lodge complaints like unfair pricing through Ez ADU and the e-aduan portal, as well as Price Catcher app.
He said the Ez ADU app, which allows the public to lodge complaints was being upgraded in keeping up with consumer needs and technology, citing the recent tyre price hike.
"Some consumers complained of the difference in prices of tyres pre-MCO (Movement Control Order) and post-MCO (through the app).
"Our officers have taken action and the price of tyres has seen a reduction the week after the report was lodged," he said in reply to a supplementary question from Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin (PH-Hang Tuah Jaya).
Meanwhile the Price Catcher app helps consumers in making price comparisons according to the types of items based on their locations.
"The Price Catcher app, which has so far been downloaded by 32,000 users, helps consumers to plan their purchase and be more alert on price changes.
"Meanwhile, the MySale Tracker app contains information on the latest sales at business premises nearby," he said in reply to a question from Datuk Robert Lawson Chuat (GPS-PBB-Betong).
He said the ministry has also ramped up efforts by forging a partnership with online shopping platform Shopee to disseminate consumerism information and advocacy through advertisements in social media platforms, as well as MedikTV at Health Ministry hospitals and clinics.
The ministry is also working with consumerism non-governmental organisations to hold a series of webinars for the community at all levels, undergraduates and secondary school students, he said.
He said online sellers were responsible in displaying their details like names, company registration numbers and information of their products or services in accordance with the Consumer Protection (Electronic Trade Transactions) Regulations 2012.
"Consumers are also encouraged to make dealings on websites, social media or business blogs with the SSM BizTrust certificate."
