The Malaysian Micro Businesses Association (MAMBA) has voiced strong opposition to proposals for a standard minimum delivery fee, warning that such a move could stifle online shopping and hurt local micro-entrepreneurs, ultimately slowing the growth of Malaysia’s digital economy.
The warning follows a nationwide survey is conducted involving 720 online consumers, which found that 89.3% of respondents oppose higher standard minimum delivery fees, preferring the lowest possible shipping cost regardless of courier brand.
The survey also revealed that 93.5% of respondents would reduce or stop online shopping if shipping prices increased, while 59% said they would buy less if a minimum delivery price was enforced.
“These findings confirm what our small sellers have been saying for months — that any increase in delivery charges risks pulling the brakes on Malaysia’s vibrant e-commerce sector,” said Alvin Low Wei Yan, MAMBA’s Secretary-General. “We must avoid a situation where a well-meaning policy inadvertently sidelines the very micro-entrepreneurs the government is trying to uplift through the 13th Malaysia Plan.”
The recently launched 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030) outlines strategies to boost digital inclusivity, enhance MSME competitiveness, and strengthen supply chains. MAMBA stressed that affordable and flexible delivery options are essential to meeting these targets, particularly for small online sellers and price-sensitive consumers.
“When shipping costs go up, the first to be affected are price-sensitive consumers and the small online sellers who rely on them. This directly undermines digital participation and income growth among micro and boutique sellers,” Alvin added.
Other survey findings include: 80.6% prefer the lowest possible shipping cost. 82.9% have no preferred courier and care only about shipping prices. 55.3% find current shipping prices reasonable. 92.8% would not pay extra for better or faster courier services.
MAMBA urged policymakers to consult with industry players to ensure that any changes to delivery fee structures are equitable, data-driven, and do not create unnecessary barriers for micro businesses and their customers.
“As we push forward with digital and SME development goals, the conversation around delivery fees must not lose sight of consumer realities and seller sustainability. Affordable logistics are the backbone of online commerce, especially for micro businesses,” Alvin concluded.
Source: https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2025/08/13/mamba-warns-imposing-standard-minimum-delivery-fee-could-hurt-msmes/