KUCHING – The Sarawak Consumers’ Association (PPS) has raised serious concerns over the conduct of a live broadcast seller who recently insulted East Malaysian consumers, particularly in Sarawak, using offensive and immoral language. The seller allegedly targeted other individuals’ families to gain popularity and increase viewership, a strategy that has now attracted over 100,000 followers.
PPS warned that such behavior constitutes cyberbullying, as it involves personal attacks, insults, and the spreading of humiliating statements online. These acts not only threaten the mental well-being of victims but also foster fear and create a negative impact on society as a whole.
Consumers have also reported troubling experiences with delayed refunds. Some buyers claimed they had to wait 90 days, and in extreme cases, up to 365 days, to receive refunds, only to have their requests rejected or their accounts blocked. PPS stated that these practices clearly violate basic ethical business standards.
Furthermore, national reports indicate an alarming rise in issues related to live broadcast e-commerce, including:
- Products not matching their advertised quality
- Skincare and supplement items exceeding hazardous substance limits
- Food failing safety and hygiene standards
- Misleading and exaggerated advertisements
“These developments show that live commerce is currently a high-risk sector with insufficient oversight, leaving consumers vulnerable to fraud,” said Dr. Wynson Ong Teck Ping, PPS President.
PPS emphasized that if such immoral trends continue, they could harm young people by promoting rudeness online, deteriorate moral values, and damage East-West Malaysia relations.
The association is urging authorities to implement a stricter legal framework for live-stream e-commerce, including:
- A code of ethics for hosts
- Rigorous product inspections
- Transparent refund and after-sales systems
- Punishments for abusive and discriminatory language
- A national surveillance system for live commerce
- Inter-agency cooperation to tackle unethical sellers
PPS will continue to compile complaints and work with enforcement authorities to protect consumer rights. The public is also urged to be vigilant to maintain a safe, civilized, and moral digital shopping environment.
For complaints, contact PPS at 017-7109299.
