Kuala lumpur: A new bill to regulate e-commerce will include clearer definitions of all parties involved, including online marketing affiliates, to ensure fairer and more comprehensive rules. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh said industry engagement sessions revealed the need to separate affiliates from sellers, as defined under existing laws.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, ‘Previously, affiliates were categorised as sellers, but discussions showed they are different because they don’t own the products. Consumers shouldn’t blame affiliates, as they only market on behalf of sellers.’ Dr Fuziah pointed out that this differentiation is crucial for ensuring fairness and will be embedded in the legal framework. She noted that the framework would be broad but address the needs and rights of all stakeholders in the e-commerce ecosystem.

Fuziah emphasized that separating affiliates as a distinct category will close gaps in existing laws and better protect the rights of all players involved. She stressed that clear definitions of each party’s role are crucial to protect consumers, improve transparency among service providers, as well as promote accountability and a fairer marketplace.

Earlier, media reports quoted KPDN Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali as saying the e-commerce bill is expected to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat next March. This move aims to address the increasing issues surrounding online transactions, which are now among the ministry’s top complaint categories each year. As of July 31, there have been 4,809 complaints recorded.

According to ministry data, the category topped the complaint list in both 2023 and 2024, with 14,211 and 10,486 cases, respectively. Most complaints involved undelivered goods, items not matching descriptions, misleading advertisements, counterfeit products, and sellers using fake identities. Dr Fuziah said these figures reflect the urgent need for stronger, more effective, and up-to-date e-commerce legislation.