KUCHING, June 19 – The Sarawak Consumers Association (PPS) has raised concern over a growing number of complaints involving an alleged online sales scam that has caused losses of more than RM80,000 to consumers and a local pharmacy.
According to PPS, the complaints involve a local woman suspected of selling household necessities such as baby milk, diapers, medicines and other daily-use items through social media platforms.
As of June 17, PPS had received 14 complaints from consumers and one complaint from a pharmacy believed to have been affected by the same individual. Initial records show that the total losses amount to RM80,509.98. The figure is expected to increase as additional complaints and supporting documents are still being reviewed and verified.
Preliminary findings indicate that transactions appeared genuine during the early stages. Several buyers reportedly received the products they ordered, creating confidence among customers and encouraging repeat purchases. Many were attracted by promotional prices that were lower than market rates and continued placing orders through social media channels.
However, according to complaints received by PPS, problems began after several successful transactions. Consumers claimed that payments were made, but the promised goods were never delivered even after the agreed delivery period had passed.
In a separate case involving a pharmacy, the same individual was alleged to have made an invalid payment transaction by submitting a payment receipt that did not reflect the actual amount paid for purchased medicines. The matter is currently based on complaints received and will require further investigation by the relevant authorities.
PPS President Dr Wynson Ong Teck Ping said the number of victims and the amount of money involved indicate that the case should not be taken lightly.
He said that when a case involves 14 consumers and a pharmacy with losses exceeding RM80,000, and potentially rising to hundreds of thousands of ringgit, it becomes a serious matter that requires public attention. He added that reports showing successful early transactions before later problems emerged highlight the need for consumers to exercise greater caution when making online purchases.
Dr Ong also noted that rising living costs have pushed many consumers to look for cheaper deals online. While this may help reduce expenses, it can also expose buyers to greater risks if sellers are not properly verified.
He advised consumers to avoid making rushed payments, especially to personal bank accounts without confirming the legitimacy of the business. Consumers should also conduct background checks on sellers and use secure payment methods that provide transaction records and traceability.
PPS believes there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward and urged anyone with relevant information to lodge a complaint. Such information could assist investigations and help prevent more consumers from falling victim to similar scams.
The case has reportedly attracted the attention of authorities, and the Sarawak Commercial Crime Investigation Department is expected to conduct further investigations based on reports received.
Members of the public who have experienced similar situations or possess relevant information are encouraged to contact the Sarawak Consumers Association hotline at 017-7109299.
PPS reminded consumers that vigilance remains the most effective defence against the increasing number of online scams. The association stressed that proper verification before making any online transaction can help prevent unnecessary financial losses and protect consumers from fraudulent activities.
