Introduction
Ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical products is paramount in Malaysia. The Suruhanjaya Tenaga (ST), or Energy Commission, regulates the approval of electrical equipment to protect consumers and maintain industry standards. For manufacturers, importers, and retailers, understanding and obtaining the necessary approvals from ST is crucial for legal compliance and market access.
What is Suruhanjaya Tenaga (ST)?
Suruhanjaya Tenaga is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the energy sector in Malaysia, including electricity and gas supply industries. One of its key roles is to ensure that all electrical equipment manufactured, imported, displayed, sold, or advertised in Malaysia meets specified safety and efficiency standards.
Certificate of Approval (CoA) Requirement
Under the Electricity Regulations 1994, certain categories of electrical equipment require a Certificate of Approval (CoA) from ST before they can be manufactured, imported, displayed, sold, or advertised. This regulation applies to:
Domestic Equipment: Appliances intended for household use.
Low Voltage Equipment: Devices usually sold directly to the general public that do not require special skills for operation.
The objective is to ensure that such equipment:
Is compatible with Malaysia’s electricity supply system.
Complies with established safety standards.
Has been tested by accredited laboratories.
Failure to obtain a CoA can result in legal penalties, including fines and confiscation of non-compliant products.
Application Process for CoA
To obtain a CoA, applicants must:
Register as a Manufacturer/Importer: Apply for a Certificate of Registration (CoR) through the e-DIK system
Submit CoA Application: Once registered, apply for the CoA via the e-Permit system
Provide Necessary Documentation: Include product specifications, test reports from accredited laboratories, and other required documents.
Await Evaluation: ST will assess the application and, if satisfactory, issue the CoA.
It’s important to note that the CoA is typically valid for one year, after which it must be renewed.
List of Regulated Electrical Equipment
ST maintains a list of electrical equipment categories that require a CoA, including but not limited to:
Plug Tops/Plugs: Devices that connect to socket outlets.Socket Outlets: Fixed or portable devices for electrical connections.
Switches and Dimmers: Devices for controlling electrical circuits.
Lamps and Lamp-Related Products: Lighting equipment.
Circuit Breakers: Safety devices to protect electrical circuits.
Household Appliances: Common domestic electrical devices.
Portable Power Tools: Handheld electrical tools.
Adapters/Chargers: Devices for charging or adapting electrical connections.
Wires/Cables/Cords: Electrical conductors and related products.
A comprehensive list and specific standards can be found in the Guidelines for the Approval of Electrical Equipment (Guidelines PDF).
Recent Updates
As of June 21, 2024, ST published the 7th edition of the Guidelines for the Approval of Electrical Equipment, which includes updated requirements and a one-year grace period for electric vehicle chargers.
Conclusion
Compliance with Suruhanjaya Tenaga’s regulations is essential for any business involved in the electrical equipment industry in Malaysia. Obtaining the necessary approvals not only ensures legal compliance but also enhances consumer trust and product safety. Manufacturers and importers should stay informed about regulatory updates and adhere strictly to the application procedures to maintain seamless operations in the Malaysian market.