PETALING JAYA: Persatuan Pengguna Semenanjung Malaysia (PPSM) has raised concerns over what it described as a suspected illegal and dishonest practice involving the sale of so-called “Asean Record” certificates and plaques to Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The consumer group claimed it had received numerous complaints from businesses and members of the public who alleged they were approached by a private company and charged tens of thousands of ringgit for the certificates.
PPSM president Sharif Ahmad said Asean, as an intergovernmental organisation, does not permit the commercial use of its name for private profit or endorse such certificates through third parties.
“Asean is an intergovernmental body represented by the heads of government of member states. In Malaysia, it is represented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he said during a press conference recently.
Sharif added that the group had also obtained a confirmation letter from the Asean Secretariat to support its claim that such certifications are not officially recognised.
The group said the practice could expose businesses to severe financial losses, particularly SMEs that may believe the recognitions carry official regional endorsement.
PPSM urged affected businesses to come forward and lodge complaints with the association, while also verifying any claims directly with the Asean Secretariat.
“Do not be pressured into paying for dubious records or recognitions. If an offer sounds unofficial or requires payment to private parties claiming to act on behalf of Asean, treat it with extreme caution,” he said.
Among the advice issued by PPSM to businesses and the public are:
> verify claims of Asean recognition directly with the Asean Secretariat through official channels;
> request written and verifiable documentation before making any payment;
> keep all receipts and communication records; and
> report suspected scams to both PPSM and law enforcement authorities.
Those seeking assistance or wishing to lodge complaints can contact the association via WhatsApp at 011-6794 7194 or email at ppsmmal.my@gmail.com
The Sun Malaysia
