Permatang sintok: The Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP) will hold a meeting with e-commerce portal and platform operators to discuss issues currently faced by online traders. Its Minister Steven Sim said among the matters to be addressed are issues related to return and refund terms for goods purchased through such platforms, among others.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sim highlighted that the discussions will not only focus on return and refund issues but will also explore collaboration opportunities with portal operators to strengthen the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) ecosystem. He emphasized the strong potential and advantages that e-commerce offers.

Sim was responding to media reports about loopholes in return and refund terms on e-commerce platforms, which some customers have allegedly manipulated to obtain goods without payment. Originally intended to protect consumer rights against fraudulent listings or mismatched goods, these terms have become burdensome for sellers, particularly small traders.

Meanwhile, Sim announced that the launch of the MADANI Cooperative and Entrepreneur Sales Programme (JMKU) in Bertam marks the start of a new series of the programme. It will be expanded to several locations across Penang, aiming to provide the public with access to essential goods at prices lower than the market rate.

He also noted that JMKU serves as a support platform for small traders and cooperatives to stimulate the domestic economy. Ten small entrepreneurs and cooperatives participated in today's sales to ensure the community has access to quality, fresh products at competitive prices.