The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali outlined ambitious government measures designed to protect local businesses, support small traders, and ensure citizens have access to affordable essentials amid ongoing economic challenges.
The Minister addressed concerns from the Member of Parliament for Gopeng regarding the rising influx of foreign goods and its potential impact on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
He stressed that while the government is committed to open markets and foreign investment, it equally prioritises creating a fair and sustainable domestic market that protects local businesses.
Turning to digital trade, he confirmed that the Electronic Commerce Act 2006 provides a legal framework for online transactions but noted that reforms are needed to keep pace with technological developments and emerging business models.
“A formal review of the existing legal framework has been underway since April 2024,” he said, adding that the revised legislation is expected to be submitted to Parliament shortly.
The Minister also highlighted measures to strengthen enforcement against unfair trading practices.
Existing safeguards include the Consumer Protection Act 1999, the Competition Act 2010, and the Foreign Participation Guidelines for trade and distribution.
Regarding online commerce, he noted collaboration between KPDN, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, and internet service providers, which in 2025 resulted in the blocking of 1,006 websites and removal of 695 misleading online advertisements.
Efforts to support local industry were also outlined, including campaigns such as the Buy Malaysian Campaign and business-matching programmes.
He emphasised that the Competition Commission of Malaysia will act against predatory pricing or abuse of market dominance by foreign players.
“The government upholds that national sovereignty includes our ability to regulate digital economic entry,” he said.
On consumer assistance, the Minister highlighted the Program Jualan Rahmah Madani (PJRM), aimed at providing essential goods at affordable prices.
He noted strong local participation, with over 2,100 operators nationwide, and the gradual rollout of cashless support through Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA).
“KPDN will continue to work with the Ministry of Finance to expand SARA terminals to all PJRM operators,” he confirmed.
The Minister also addressed fuel subsidies under the BUDI Madani RON95 initiative, clarifying that subsidised petrol is intended for Malaysian-registered vehicles.
“New regulations prohibiting purchases of subsidised RON95 by foreign-registered vehicles will take effect from 1 April 2026,” he said, noting that additional measures will restrict the use of foreign credit cards for petrol purchases and increase covert inspections at identified hotspots.
On sugar subsidies, he explained that incentives are limited to small retail packs to stabilise household prices while avoiding bulk support for large-scale food and beverage operations.
Turning to urban poverty, the Minister stressed the need for cross-ministry collaboration encompassing housing, healthcare, education, employment, and access to affordable necessities.
Programmes such as the Urban Poverty Eradication Programme, People’s Residences Project, and direct social assistance from the Department of Social Welfare play a key role in alleviating urban deprivation.
Armizan reaffirmed the government’s holistic approach to cost of living challenges, combining price stability measures with initiatives to enhance household disposable income.
“KPDN through NACCOL will continue to focus on the core needs of citizens across ministries, covering food, health, education, housing, transport, income, and utilities,” he said, expressing gratitude to Members of Parliament for their contributions and recommendations.
The Minister also paid tribute to His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for the royal address and expressed appreciation for Members of Parliament who had engaged in discussion on the ministry’s responsibilities and policies - February 9, 2026
