SUBANG JAYA: The public should report any consumer-related misconduct through the appropriate and official channels to ensure thorough investigations can be conducted.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said bringing such matters to social media would only enable perpetrators to "hide" their wrongdoings before enforcement officers can take action.
"We can increase the number of our enforcement officers and enhance enforcement efforts, but we also need to focus on consumer advocacy, which is a priority for the ministry now.
"We strongly urge our consumers to channel their complaints through official platforms, providing information that can aid in the investigation, which is crucial.
"If the issue goes viral first, those committing the offences might hide their wrongdoings. If there are any (official) complaints, we will notice them as soon as possible," he told reporters after the closing ceremony of the Shopee Seller Summit.
Armizan also gave his assurances that the ministry would promptly initiate investigations once complaints were submitted with accurate information.
He said this is evident through the nationwide enforcement efforts under the ministry, which has been perceived as more aggressive than before.
"Yes, we can see how our enforcement officers across the states are aggressively conducting operations, as it is our focus in 2024, emphasising enforcement agility."
However, Armizan said success in combating consumer-related misconduct also hinges on consumer cooperation and awareness.
"So, I have no issue with complaints being made on social media and other platforms, but if these complaints can be directed through existing official channels with precise information, it would facilitate quicker investigations."