Cartel Whistleblowers to Receive Protection, Rewards

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC) will strengthen protection and provide rewards for whistleblowers who come forward to expose cartel activities or bid-rigging practices following amendments to the Competition Act 2010 [Act 712] and the Competition Commission Act 2010 [Act 713].

MyCC Chief Executive Officer Datuk Iskandar Ismail said such protection was crucial as cartel activities typically take place in secrecy and behind closed doors, making cooperation from whistleblowers linked to companies or consumers essential.

“Previously, protection was available, but it was insufficient… now we are strengthening that protection as well as providing rewards.

“There were complainants who came forward with information previously, but when no reward was offered, they walked away,” he said during Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme titled Empowering the Business Ecosystem and Consumer Rights through Amendments to Acts 712 and 713 today.

He said complainants also faced the risk of losing their jobs if they disclosed confidential company information, which was among the factors discouraging them from coming forward.

“Complainants have said they are putting themselves at risk by coming to MyCC, but there would be no compensation if they lost their jobs for disclosing company secrets,” he said.

Iskandar said once the amendments are gazetted this year, MyCC will be able to provide more comprehensive protection to individuals who come forward with information.

He said the move would also make it easier for the public, particularly consumers, to lodge complaints regarding anti-competitive practices.

“Now that there is protection, once we enforce these amendments this year, it will be easier for everyone, especially consumers, to lodge complaints.

“At the same time, we will continue to conduct consumer advocacy programmes every month,” he said.

MyCC therefore invited individuals or companies with information related to cartel activities to lodge complaints through various channels, including WhatsApp.

Iskandar said the amendments would also expand MyCC’s role in conducting studies on markets that have a significant impact on the public, including the digital economy and e-commerce.

He said Section 11 of Act 712 empowers MyCC to conduct market studies involving sectors that affect consumers.

Cooperation with competition authorities in other countries, he said, also enables MyCC to obtain information to ensure the domestic market does not fall victim to anti-competitive practices by international companies.

Bernama