A new e-commerce law is on its way, and online shoppers and sellers should take note. Malay Mail's headline says Malaysia is getting a new e-commerce law, and RinggitPlus reports that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said when tabling Budget 2027 on 9 October that a new E-Commerce Bill will go to Parliament at its next meeting to make online platforms and sellers more accountable.
RinggitPlus also stresses what has not changed. None of this is law yet, so nothing changes when you shop online today. Anwar did not say which platforms the Bill will cover, what the penalties will be, or when the rules will start, and he did not name any foreign e-commerce companies, though he said the government is looking at laws and enforcement for foreign firms that entered the market without proper supervision. No new tax on online purchases was announced, and the 10 per cent sales tax on low-value imported goods of RM500 or less remains.
Earlier reporting gives the background. Domestic Trade Minister Armizan Mohd Ali said the Bill would replace the Electronic Commerce Act 2006, which mainly validates online transactions without spelling out responsibilities. In September he said the aim was to finalise drafting this year, with engagement of platforms and a regulatory impact assessment, while avoiding rules that hinder the growth of e-commerce.
For shoppers, the likely goal is stronger protection against unsafe goods and unclear sellers. For small sellers, the concern is compliance costs, so clear guidelines will matter. Until the Bill appears, the sensible approach is to use trusted platforms, check seller reviews and keep proof of purchase. Watch for the draft text, which will show the definitions, duties and penalties that will actually affect you.
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