A recent raid by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) in Kuala Lumpur has uncovered hundreds of counterfeit smartphone batteries being sold openly in popular shopping malls — a discovery that highlights a growing and dangerous trend among consumers who opt for cheap, uncertified phone parts.
A Market Flooded with Counterfeits
During the enforcement operation, officers seized 422 imitation smartphone batteries valued at over RM10,500. The products, branded under well-known names, were found at two retail outlets after weeks of intelligence gathering. Several store employees were detained for questioning.
Operations unit head Mohd Fadli Che Mi said the batteries were confiscated under the Trademarks Act 2019 and lacked Sirim certification — the mark that ensures a product meets Malaysia’s safety and performance standards.
“These counterfeit batteries not only have a shorter lifespan but also pose a fire and explosion risk due to the likelihood of short circuits,” he warned.
The Hidden Cost of Going Cheap
For many users, the temptation to buy a battery that costs RM30 or RM40 instead of RM70-RM300 for an original one can be strong. But the real cost often appears later.
Fadli revealed that several consumers have lodged complaints after suffering significant losses from using counterfeit batteries. Some had to replace damaged motherboards costing hundreds of ringgit, while others lost irreplaceable personal data when their phones malfunctioned.
The ministry’s investigation found that syndicates use two main sales tactics:
- Open admission: Sellers tell customers the batteries are imitation products and sell them cheaply.
- Deceptive pricing: Counterfeits are sold for RM55–RM60, just slightly below market price, making them seem authentic.
Uncertified batteries are built without proper safety mechanisms such as heat sensors, pressure valves, or short-circuit protection. When these fail, the battery can swell, overheat, or catch fire, potentially damaging the entire device or injuring the user.
Authorities also suspect these syndicates are distributing other unsafe accessories, including chargers, cables, earphones, and display screens. These imitation components can disrupt a phone’s power flow, cause overheating, void warranties, and interfere with operating systems.
How to Stay Safe
Consumers are urged to check for Sirim certification marks before purchasing any replacement battery or accessory. Products sold through authorised dealers are tested for safety and compatibility, reducing the risk of device failure or fire.
KPDN said investigations are ongoing and more inspections are expected in the coming weeks to trace the network behind the counterfeit trade.
