MP pushes for expanded consumer protection covering used vehicles, appliances

The push to broaden consumer safeguards comes as lawmakers examine gaps in existing legislation that currently limit protection for second-hand and faulty merchandise. Zahari, representing a PN constituency, has urged parliament to prioritise amendments that would establish clearer recourse mechanisms for affected consumers across multiple product categories.

Current lemon law provisions in Malaysia primarily address new motor vehicles, allowing buyers to seek refunds or replacements for vehicles with persistent defects. The legislator argues that similar protections should extend to the used car market, where buyers face heightened risks of concealed mechanical problems and limited remedies.

Electrical appliances also feature prominently in the proposed expansion, with concerns raised about defective goods reaching consumers without adequate warranty enforcement or replacement guarantees. Consumer advocacy groups have previously highlighted enforcement challenges and the need for stronger legislative backing to support buyer claims.

Parliament is expected to review the proposed amendments in coming legislative sessions. Consumer protection advocates have welcomed the initiative, noting that expanded lemon law coverage would establish more equitable purchasing conditions for Malaysian consumers across broader product categories.