PUTRAJAYA (March 10): Malaysia’s direct selling industry grew 7.4% to RM34.4 billion in 2024, from RM32.04 billion the previous year, said Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh.

She said the industry maintained its position as the world’s sixth-largest and the fourth-largest in the Asia-Pacific from 2020 to 2024, according to a report by the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations.

"Malaysia also recorded the highest market penetration globally, ranking first with a penetration rate of 2.28%.

"This recognition has elevated the country’s direct selling industry to a level comparable to developed markets such as the US, South Korea, Germany, China and Japan," she said in a statement on Monday.  

The statement was issued in conjunction with the presentation of direct selling licences to 45 companies, comprising 18 new licensees and 27 renewals.  

Fuziah said the ministry is responsible for regulating the sector under the Direct Sales and Anti-Pyramid Scheme Act 1993 (Act 500).  

In line with industry developments, both domestically and globally, the ministry is comprehensively amending the Act to keep pace with evolving market dynamics.  

“The amendments aim to foster a more comprehensive, sustainable and ethical direct selling ecosystem.  

"This reflects the ministry’s commitment to developing and expanding the sector, in line with the government’s Madani Malaysia concept, which seeks to strengthen national prosperity and ensure equitable distribution across all levels of society," she said.  

Fuziah said the ministry remains committed to ensuring all direct selling companies comply with legal and regulatory requirements.  

“Through the issuance of direct selling licences, we hope all industry players will uphold integrity, operate with transparency and prioritise consumer rights.  

“The government remains optimistic that the industry will continue to grow holistically, create business opportunities, boost household incomes and contribute positively to Malaysia’s socio-economic development,” she added.  

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