With the world quickly moving onto the digital platform, enabling you to buy practically anything and everything, we consult the experts on what you should know before checking out your virtual shopping cart.
1 THE PROS AND CONS
YAY
You’ll have access to a great variety and land amazing bargains – whenever you want to, and from anywhere with an internet connection or mobile data. Plus, you’ll be able to read reviews from other buyers to discern beforehand if a product is worth it.
NAY
Online stores offering fabulous bargains may quickly run out of stock. Not to mention, you won’t be able to get a guarantee on quality until the product is in your hands, and there is a possibility you’ll be sent the wrong size or colour.
2 ARE TAXES INVOLVED?
FIONE (F): “Online, prices are mostly cheaper than conventional stores due to lower operation costs. If you’re shopping from a local seller on a local platform, GST and other taxes will be the same as offline rates. But if you’re shopping from international websites, also known as border eCommerce, the taxes may be lower and you can enjoy duty exemptions for items below RM500 (cost of items inclusive of cost price, insurance, and freight).”
3 SHIPPING FEES
CAROL (C): “Some sellers offer nationwide flat-rate shipping, while others offer two rates for West and East Malaysia. The majority of merchants use Pos Malaysia’s services, but there has been an emergence of other providers such as Easyparcel, ZaptoExpress, and more. International shipping fees will definitely be more expensive – so, group up with your friends to share the cost.”
4 WHAT TO ASK BEFORE YOU COMMIT
Remember that receipts can be photo shopped to confuse customers regarding the authenticity of a product, so make sure you run these questions by the sellers:
This story is from the September 2017 edition of Her World Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2017 edition of Her World Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Beauty The Natural Way
With climate change rapidly threatening the future of Mother Earth, we urgently need to curb further acts of destruction. We speak to Law Hong Mei, founder of The Olive Tree, about building a beauty brand that is sustainable from the core.
Even Pets Need Tummy Care?
For many, keeping a pet is more than just caring for an animal; pets are family members, too. We speak to veterinary surgeon, Dr Wafaa Abdul Washefffrom Pets Corner Sdn Bhd, to find out how your pets can stay healthy with a suitable diet
The Healing Power Of Unconditional Love
There’s a saying that goes, “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” For one woman, these words resonated deeply. An unlikely companion came into her life at her lowest point and changed everything.
YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND IN ME
“More than half of my time is spent with animals, but I enjoy it,” enthuses animal rescuer, Aileen Lee. The story of this selfless lady’s dedication and love for the fur kids she has saved will warm your heart.
MISSION: Catification
We discover why pet proofing your home ensures harmony and safety for both the owner and the cat.
THE ONE WHO'S TAKING ACTION
Best known for her extensively waitlisted Nina bag, Gabriela Hearst walks the talk when it comes to sustainable luxury. The New York-based designer shares her inspirations, dreams and resolutions for herself and her eponymous label.
BORN TO ENTERTAIN
YOU MIGHT RECOGNISE HER AS THE GENTLE AND LOVING MOTHER IN LEE CHONG WEI, THE BIOPIC OF THE BADMINTON LEGEND, OR THE VULNERABLE YET RESILIENT TEACHER IN WET SEASON, WHICH HIT THE CINEMAS IN MARCH. SOME OF US MAY HAVE SEEN YEO YANN YANN ON THE BIG SCREEN PLAYING VARIOUS CHARACTERS FOR MORE THAN A DECADE. STILL, SHE NEVER FAILS LEAVE HER AUDIENCE IN AWE OF HER ACTING PROWESS.
THE TRUTH BEHIND FAUX FUR
Is imitation fur still a feasible alternative in this modern, fashion-forward world? Nadhirah Othman uncovers how the fur industry – both real and fake – brings a detrimental impact to the well-being of our planet.
Surprising reasons WHY YOUR KID is under performing in school
You’re understandably frustrated that your child isn’t living up to her potential. But before you blame her attitude, check if these conditions are hindering her academically.
A PAWSITIVE' Life
Like in many parts of the world, pet culture has seen exponential growth in Malaysia. In this issue, Lorraine Chai discusses pet therapy, a method of treatment that is gaining traction, and also some of the pet trends you don’t want to miss out on.