THE CONSUMER’S CODE
Understanding Your Rights

Introduction

In this modern day and age, one can easily purchase their favourite items and/or goods, with just the touch of a finger. As simple as the purchase procedure is, delivery of such items and/or goods are often efficient and almost immediate.

However, what happens when the items and/or goods do not get delivered? Rather, what happens when the items and/or goods delivered are not as packaged or promoted. To make matters worse, what happens when the “marketplace” where these items and/or goods are purchased, do not provide a reasonable and/or effective method to resolve your grievances?

In Malaysia, the Tribunal for Consumer Claims is an independent body established to protect your rights. This independent body is established under Section 85, Part XII of the Consumer Protection Act 1999. The Tribunal operates under the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Co-Operatives and Consumerism.

Who Can Use This Tribunal?

And who can apply to this tribunal? Any person who buys goods and services for personal use or for domestic or household purpose.

Is This Tribunal Almighty?

No. Although we often hear the phrase, "the customer is always right", this Tribunal is not almighty. The Tribunal does not have jurisdiction over matters:-

(a) arising from personal injury or death;

(b) for the recovery of land, or any estate or interest in land;

(c) in which the title to any land, or any estate or interest in land, or any franchise, is in question; and

(d) in which there is a dispute concerning -

(i). the entitlement of any person under a will or settlement or on any intestacy;

(ii). good will;

(iii). any chose in action;

(iv). any trade secret or other intellectual property.

(e) where any other tribunal has been established under any other written law to hear and determine claims on matters that are under the jurisdiction of that other tribunal.

Also, claims made to the Tribunal must be made within a 3-years’ period from the date a complain arises.

I Have A Complain; Can I File It with The Tribunal?

Well, it really depends on the type of complain. The Tribunal for Consumer Claims entertains claims arising from:-

(a) a false or misleading conduct, false representation or unfair practice;

(b) safety of goods and services;

(c) right against a supplier from guarantees implied by the Act;

(d) right against a supplier from guarantees implied by the Act in relation to services;

(e) right against a manufacturer in connection with any express guarantee on the supply of goods; and

(f) right against a manufacturer in connection with any guarantee implied by the Act in respect of any goods.

10 Steps To A Tribunal Hearing