Malaysia moves to replace 2006 e-commerce law with new comprehensive bill

At the launch of the 2026 Consumer Festival in Batu Kawan, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali confirmed the government’s plan to repeal the Electronic Commerce Act 2006 and introduce a new, broader e-commerce Bill before year-end. The ministry has approved the policy shift and created two committees to streamline coordination among the Domestic Trade, Communications and Digital ministries.

Stakeholder consultations will cover platform responsibilities, agency roles and regulatory mechanisms. Before the draft is forwarded, a regulatory impact assessment will be conducted together with the Malaysia Productivity Corporation. Draft provisions consider licensing online platforms to address imported goods, consumer safety and the sustainability of micro, small and medium enterprises, while aiming to preserve sector growth.