The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has called on the Malaysian government to investigate products entering the country from the Chinese-founded online fashion giant Shein. This call to action comes in the wake of reports from South Korean authorities revealing high levels of toxic chemicals in children's products sold by Shein.
CAP's president, Mohideen Abdul Kader, expressed alarm over the findings, emphasizing that Shein is a popular e-commerce platform in Malaysia, particularly among the youth. Mohideen urged Malaysian authorities to conduct safety tests on Shein products promptly, citing concerns over the presence of highly dangerous chemicals.
Recent reports indicate that Shein has removed the tainted products from its website following the discovery by South Korean authorities. Both Singapore's Consumer Product Safety Office and Shein have confirmed the removal of the products from the online catalogue while investigations are ongoing. A Shein spokesperson stated that appropriate follow-up action would be taken against suppliers if safety standards were breached.
According to Mohideen, seven out of eight products tested from Shein contained formaldehyde and phthalates in levels exceeding safety limits. Particularly alarming was the discovery that one pair of children's shoes contained phthalates exceeding the permitted limit by 428 times. Mohideen highlighted the serious health risks associated with exposure to these chemicals, especially for children, including adverse effects on reproductive, neurological, and developmental systems.
In light of these findings, Mohideen advised consumers to take precautionary measures, such as washing new clothes before wearing them to eliminate toxic chemicals. He also urged consumers to be cautious when purchasing items from brands that are not transparent about their manufacturing processes. Additionally, Mohideen recommended avoiding or minimizing the purchase of clothes or items labeled as stain, water, or odor-resistant, as these may contain harmful chemicals.
CAP's call for action underscores the importance of ensuring consumer safety and holding manufacturers accountable for product quality and safety standards. By raising awareness of the potential risks associated with certain products, CAP aims to empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions and protect their health and well-being.
As authorities investigate the safety of Shein products in Malaysia, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety when shopping online. CAP's advocacy serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to safeguard consumer rights and uphold standards of product safety in the marketplace.
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