SUBANG JAYA: Malaysians are urged to lodge complaints through official channels first before resorting to social media to address consumer abuse issues, says Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.

The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister cautioned that airing grievances online could aid the perpetrators in "hiding" their wrongdoings before authorities could investigate and take action.

"If you 'viral' the complaints first, then those who are in the wrong could cover their tracks. But if there are complaints shared to the ministry’s existing platforms with accurate information then we can conduct an investigation promptly," he told reporters at the 2024 Shopee Sellers Summit here on Thursday (June 27).

To ensure a successful operation, Armizan said the ministry relies on public cooperation for effective enforcement of the complaints reported.

"One of the main focus now is consumer advocacy. We are hoping for cooperation from the consumers to lodge their complaints to our official channels by providing the right information so we can use it for the investigation.

"I can assure you that once the complaint and details are shared, we will conduct the investigation promptly as we are targeting to improve our enforcement capabilities," he added.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/27/lodge-complaints-through-official-channels-first-before-going-viral-on-social-media-says-armizan