PETALING JAYA: The deadline has been reached for auto repair workshops to display the names and certification of their mechanics, and authorities will now take action against non-compliant operators, according to Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry director-general (enforcement) Datuk Azman Adam. The Consumer Protection Act 1999 (Act 599) states that companies could face a fine of RM100,000, while individuals could face a fine of RM50,000 or a three-year jail term if found guilty of non-compliance.
Azman Adam clarified that workshop operators were given ample time to comply with the ruling, and failure to do so will result in penalties. The Consumer Protection (Workshops Information Disclosure) (Amendment) Regulations 2022 were intended to be enforced last year but were delayed by a year to allow workshops time to comply.
Despite the grace period, the majority of auto repair workshops in the country have not yet met the requirements. The purpose of these regulations is to ensure transparency and that the prices charged by workshops align with the services provided. It also encourages workshops to hire or upskill mechanics, thereby increasing service quality and business productivity, according to Azman Adam.
Under the ruling, workshops are required to display the names and qualifications of their mechanics, clarify whether offered spare parts are new, used, or restored, provide written documentation regarding any guarantees for these spare parts, and state whether there is a guarantee for repair jobs carried out by the workshop.
Experts in safety also support the move, recognizing that it will give consumers better assurance of their vehicles’ roadworthiness. Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) chairman Prof Dr Wong Shaw Voon stated that these requirements promote accountability from workshops and provide a platform for consumers to take action if necessary.
Complying with the new regulation is a positive step towards delivering quality services, as it eliminates the need for referrals and instills confidence in vehicle owners regarding the competency of the mechanics working on their vehicles, Wong added. Additionally, clearly stating the status of spare parts used (new, used, or restored) is important for consumer fairness.
To report non-compliant workshops, individuals can contact https://eaduan.kpdn.gov.my/ or reach out to the carelines at 1800 88 6800, 019-279 4317, or 019-848 8000, or use the app Ez ADU KPDN.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
