Sarawak Vehicle Dealers Association president Donald Pang Kang Leung has cautioned car buyers against making payments into personal bank accounts, emphasizing that such mistakes have resulted in significant financial losses.
Pang, who also serves as chairman of the Miri Motor Dealers Association, highlighted a rising trend of disputes across the state, where buyers have unknowingly transferred funds into personal accounts instead of official dealership accounts, leaving them without valid proof of payment.
“Purchasing a vehicle is a major transaction. Payment procedures must never be taken lightly, and shortcuts will only lead to trouble,” he said.
He stressed that all licensed car dealerships maintain official business accounts, and payments—including deposits and down payments—should only be made through these channels. Buyers can also pay at dealership counters to obtain official receipts.
Pang noted that many victims have trusted sales personnel or acquaintances, transferring thousands—or even tens of thousands—of ringgit into personal accounts, only to receive neither the vehicle nor a refund. When police reports are filed, proving that the recipient acted on behalf of a dealership is often difficult, resulting in investigations being treated as personal fraud cases with recoveries rarely successful.
With online scams on the rise, Pang warned that fraudsters are increasingly impersonating dealerships or agents to deceive buyers. He reiterated the importance of verifying payment channels before making any transaction.
“Consumers must confirm the dealership’s official bank account, retain payment records, insist on official receipts, and never transfer money to personal accounts,” he said.
Pang first issued a similar warning in July, underscoring the need for heightened consumer awareness as the automotive industry continues to grow.
