Explain how late charges are set under Competition Commission bill, govt told

KUALA LUMPUR: An opposition MP called on the government to explain how late payment charges under the Competition Commission (Amendment) Bill 2026 will be determined, warning that small businesses could be badly impacted by vague rules.

Abd Ghani Ahmad (PN-Jerlun) said the bill gives the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC) the power to fine companies and impose late payment charges if they break competition laws.

He said while late payment charges might encourage companies to take the commission’s decisions seriously, details were lacking.

“Will the rates be made transparent? Will there be clear guidelines so everyone knows how the penalties and late payment charges are calculated?” he asked during the debate on the bill in the Dewan Rakyat today.

The bill, designed to strengthen MyCC’s enforcement powers against cartels and monopolies, was passed by voice vote.

According to the amendments, the commission may impose fines and late payment charges on companies that breach competition laws.

The rate will be decided by the commission, but the bill does not specify the rate or the formula used to calculate it.

Ghani said unclear rules could create the impression that some businesses were receiving different treatment from others.

He said SMEs needed protection because big companies might absorb penalties as part of their business costs, while smaller firms could be badly hurt by heavy fines.

He also questioned a clause in the bill allowing the commission to impose fees, administrative charges or “any other charges”, saying the phrase was too wide and should be explained clearly.

Ismail Muttalib (PN-Maran) said MyCC should review major government decisions that may affect prices and competition.

“I propose introducing a competition impact assessment for major policies that affect consumer markets,” he said.

Winding up the debate, domestic trade and cost of living minister Armizan Mohd Ali said penalties and fees collected would go into the Malaysia Competition Commission Fund to support the commission’s operations and training.

Armizan said the commission had taken action against 270 enterprises over breaches in the competition law , involving more than RM660 million in penalties.