Note: This story has been amended for accuracy.
KUALA LUMPUR (July 2): Malaysia has taken another step towards amending the Competition Act 2010 that would expand the law’s scope and strengthen the Malaysia Competition Commission’s (MyCC) enforcement powers.
Under the Competition (Amendment) Bill 2026, the law will cover “any economic activity” instead of only “any commercial activity”, widening its regulatory reach. The bill’s second reading was passed on Thursday.
Other key changes include stronger information-gathering powers for MyCC in investigations and market reviews, a new settlement mechanism for parties admitting liability, and whistleblower protection provisions.
The amendments also update the list of laws exempted from the Competition Act. Previously exempt laws include the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, Energy Commission Act 2001, and Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia Act 2017. The updated list will also include the Gas Supply Act 1993, Postal Services Act 2012, and Petroleum Regulations 1974.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said when tabling the bill that the amendments are necessary due to changes in technology and market conditions since the Act came into force in 2010.
He said the revisions aim to improve enforcement against anti-competitive practices such as cartels and monopolies, as well as enhance investigative, decision-making and appeals processes.
An accompanying Competition Commission (Amendment) Bill 2026 was also introduced to align the legal framework governing the commission.
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