KUALA LUMPUR: The Direct Selling Association Malaysia (DSAM) has urged the government to allocate funds to tighten regulations, increase enforcement and continuously educate ethical e-commerce practices in Budget 2025.

DSAM, which represents over four million entrepreneurs, aims to create and maintain an environment that is conducive to the growth and stability of the direct selling industry in Malaysia,

Its president Mohamad Zaihan Mohamed Ariffin said implementing the right laws and tightening regulations for e-commerce platforms could support the growth of genuine entrepreneurs, elevating their earnings and contributing positively to the economy.

"While we acknowledge the potential for e-commerce platforms to offer valuable business opportunities, tightening of the laws and regulations on e-commerce platforms is much needed.

"There is room for tightening the laws to include the unlawful reselling of authentic and trademarked products, counterfeit, unregistered, or altered products," he told Bernama in an interview recently.

He pointed out that the unlawful sales of direct-selling products have jeopardised genuine self-funded, self-employed taxpaying entrepreneurs like the ones in the direct-selling industry.

"We hope that Budget 2025 prioritises initiatives to support genuine entrepreneurs growing their businesses ethically and fairly," he said.

Mohamad Zaihan is also hoping that the government provides tax relief for purchases of health and wellness supplements and products, similar to the current provisions for sports equipment. He reckons that this initiative could encourage Malaysians to prioritise their health and well-being.

"Offering tax rebates on the purchase of authentic, locally registered products from compliant companies, the government could incentivise to the people to make healthier choices which indirectly boost tax collections from local businesses.

"This measure would promote preventive healthcare, reduce the burden on the healthcare system, and contribute to a more productive and resilient population," he added.

Budget 2025 is scheduled to be tabled in Parliament on Friday, Oct 18, 2024.

– BERNAMA