BY: CATHERINE SAW

Unlike their counterparts in the West, consumers in Malaysia sorely lack a sound knowledge and understanding of their rights and, therefore, in many instances, they fail to get a fair deal as consumers.

While most states have consumer associations, coming under the umbrella of the Federation of Malaysian Consumer Associations (Fomca), nevertheless they lack clout in being able to fully assist consumers who have suffered wrong.

On its part, while the Consumer Affairs Ministry of the government does offer assistance to distraught consumers, they are hardly approached as Malaysians believe there is a lot of red tape and bureaucracy involved when seeking redress.

These are the reasons why, besides being ignorant of their rights as consumers, many Malaysian consumers prefer to suffer wrong and sweep the matter under the carpet which is really having no faith in justice.

This is a sheer case of going about it the wrong way as it will only embolden retailers to fleece consumers and therefore Malaysians must nip the problem of a wrong in the bud by confronting the retailer and getting fair exchange for their money.

It is especially during these hard and difficult times, when consumers do not get fair value for their hard earned money, why consumers need to be vigilant and on guard against unscrupulous traders and businesses.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher