Malay language condition for e-commerce product details ‘a rushed decision', says SUPP man
Bong Siak Ping
KUCHING (June 23): The Malay language requirement for the names and descriptions of all products offered via e-commerce platforms is a rushed decision, one made without taking micro online businesses into consideration.
In pointing this out, the Kuching branch of Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) views the policy as one 'that comes with no clear instructions, translation tools or technology support'.
'Many small businesses and young entrepreneurs, especially those selling their products on Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop e-platforms, usually write the product descriptions in English.
'Now they're scrambling to adapt.
'The foreign sellers are also struggling with translation issues, causing widespread confusion,' said SUPP Kuching Youth publicity and secretary Bong Siak Ping in a statement yesterday.
It is reported that such policy is scheduled for implementation by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry effective this June 24, but it has been postponed until further notice due to strong backlash from the e-commerce community.
According to Bong, the new rule comes under the Consumer Protection (Electronic Trade Transactions) Regulations 2024, enshrined in the Consumer Protection Act 1999.
'Upon violation of this rule, the offender could be fined up to RM50,000, jailed for up to three years, or both.
'A repeat offender could face fine up to RM100,000 and imprisonment of up to five years; a company could be imposed a fine of RM100,000 for a first offence, and up to RM200,000 for repeat violation,' he said.
Bong said although the government had announced the deferment of its implementation, such action was merely a typical gesture of putting the issue on hold.
'E-commerce is inherently international, being predominantly conducted in English.
'In this regard, the ministry's insistence on using Malay exclusively is tantamount to 'self-isolation'.
'I wonder if this policy would undermine Sarawak's constitutional rights and administrative autonomy, since the Sarawak Constitution preserves English as an official language widely used in government, education and commerce.
'Forcing Sarawak-based e-commerce operators to use only Malay could be seen as eroding these rights.'
Bong also expressed regret that the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak had remained silent on this issue.
'Has DAP Sarawak succumbed to pressure from its central leadership?
'At this critical juncture, are they merely playing the role of a 'silent partner'?
'The DAP has championed the concept of a 'Malaysian Malaysia', and DAP Sarawak has never dared to openly support the 'Sarawak First' vision because it represents the interests of peninsula-based groups in Sarawak,' he said. – Bernama Bong Siak Ping e-commerce lead Malay language Sarawak United People's Party
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