Govt tightens import controls to protect consumers and ensure fair competition

THE Government is strengthening import governance and enforcement to prevent construction materials that fail to meet safety standards from entering the Malaysian market, Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong said.

Liew said stronger regulatory oversight was necessary not only to safeguard consumer safety, but also to protect market integrity, promote fair competition and maintain confidence in Malaysia’s trading ecosystem.

He made the remarks during an engagement session with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and the Malaysia Glass Association (MGA) on July 27, which discussed the entry of non-compliant construction materials, challenges faced by the industry and measures to strengthen compliance and enforcement.

“Every product marketed in Malaysia must meet the prescribed safety and quality standards. This is important to protect the interests of the people, ensure fair competition and prevent those who comply with regulations from continuing to face unhealthy competition caused by irresponsible trading practices.”

Liew said the issue of non-compliant products could not be taken lightly, as their entry into the market could potentially compromise public safety while undermining businesses that adhere to regulatory requirements.

He stressed that the Government remained committed to ensuring that all commercial activities were conducted according to good governance, legal compliance and accountability under the MADANI Government framework.

Strengthening standards compliance, he said, was part of a whole-of-government approach involving close cooperation between ministries, regulatory agencies and industry players.

The approach is aligned with the aspirations of the MADANI Economy to strengthen governance, improve regulatory efficiency and create a business environment that is transparent, competitive and sustainable.

Effective market governance would not only protect consumers and local industries that comply with regulations, but also contribute to economic stability, strengthen investor confidence and ensure Malaysia’s trading ecosystem operates with transparency and integrity, he said.

CIDB, as the agency responsible for developing, regulating and improving the quality and safety of Malaysia’s construction industry, would continue to strengthen monitoring and enforcement of construction material standards.

This includes tighter oversight of imports, compliance inspections and enforcement action against parties found to have breached regulations.

The Ministry of Finance, meanwhile, will continue working closely with ministries, agencies and industry stakeholders to strengthen Malaysia’s regulatory framework, ensuring sustainable economic growth while protecting public interests and safety and enhancing the competitiveness of local businesses. - August 12, 2026