Malaysia's Retailers Call for Stricter Action Against Contraband Cigarette Sellers

Malaysia's retailers are pushing for tougher action against those selling contraband cigarettes, Malaysia's national news agency Bernama reported.

The Federation of Sundry Goods Merchants Associations of Malaysia said it is crucial to protect legitimate retailers who pay taxes and hold necessary licences but are losing customers to cheaper contraband cigarettes.
The group welcomed the government's allocation of RM1.1 billion to strengthen enforcement agencies.

Its president, Hong Chee Meng, said consistent enforcement is essential to level the playing field for legal retailers. "We only want the law to be enforced fairly and consistently," he said.

The association's members, who operate legally, risk being undercut by sellers offering contraband cigarettes at lower prices. Hong urged authorities to take stern action against premises repeatedly selling illegal cigarettes.

The government's Budget 2027 includes measures to ease the cost burden on small businesses, but Hong warned these benefits could be undermined if legal retailers continue to lose customers to contraband cigarettes.

The authorities have already taken steps to crack down on illegal cigarette sales, including a recent operation in Puncak Alam where three business premises were ordered to close and 18 compounds were issued for various offences.

Malaysia's retail sector is seeking a fair and consistent enforcement of the law to ensure that all businesses operate on a level playing field.