Singapore’s media regulator launches consultation to enhance consumer protection

The Media Development Authority (MDA) of Singapore is inviting members of the public to share their feedback on proposed changes to enhance consumer protection measures under the Media Market Conduct Code (MMCC).

This four-week long public consultation is part of MDA’s efforts to further protect the interest of pay-TV consumers, Advanced Television reports.

MDA last reviewed the consumer protection provisions in 2011, which saw the introduction of measures such as maximum contract term and graduated early termination charges (ETCs). For this public consultation, MDA has proposed three areas of changes to address key consumer concerns.

• No penalty fee: allowing unilateral contract variations without early termination charges under certain circumstances;
• Disallowing forced upgrade of non pay-TV or ‘bundled’ services; and
• Requirement to disclose important terms and conditions of service

Additionally, MDA also proposes for retailers to obtain subscribers’ consent to continue with the trial and/ or complimentary service, before they can start charging.

The consultation will close on October 22.