Ministry Warns Malaysians: Fake Smartphone Batteries Could Explode Without Warning
These counterfeit batteries not only have a shorter lifespan but also pose various hazards and risks.
By Syazwan Bahri | 14 Oct 2025, 10:40 AM
* #batteries
* #counterfeit
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* #Smartphone
* #smartphonebattery
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* #technews
Cover image via New Straits Times & Mr Gadget Shoppe
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A recent raid by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) in Kuala Lumpur has exposed a growing and dangerous trend of counterfeit smartphone batteries being sold to consumers in popular shopping malls
During the operation, officers seized 422 imitation batteries under the Trademarks Act 2019, valued at over RM10,500, which were branded under well-known names but lacked the necessary SIRIM certification.
According to KPDN operations unit head Mohd Fadli Che Mi, these counterfeit batteries pose a significant fire and explosion risk due to the lack of proper safety mechanisms like heat sensors, pressure valves, or short-circuit protection, he told the News Straits Times.
Fadli warned that these batteries not only have a shorter lifespan but also carry the risk of short circuits, which can cause battery swelling, overheating, or even fires, potentially damaging the entire device or injuring the user.
The ministry's investigation found that syndicates use two main sales tactics to distribute these counterfeit products
Some sellers openly admit that the batteries are imitations and sell them cheaply, at around RM30 to RM40, while a more deceptive tactic involves selling them for RM55 to RM60, just slightly below the market price of an original one to make them seem authentic.
Fadli noted that several consumers have lodged complaints after suffering heavy losses from using these fake components. Some had to spend hundreds of ringgit to replace damaged motherboards, while others lost irreplaceable personal data when their phones malfunctioned.
Authorities also suspect that these syndicates are distributing a wider range of counterfeit accessories and internal components, including chargers, data cables, earphones, and display screens.
These imitation products, while sold at lower prices, can carry serious risks beyond physical safety, such as disrupting a phone's power flow, voiding its warranty, and interfering with its operating system.
KPDN urges consumers to be vigilant and always check for SIRIM certification marks before purchasing any replacement battery or accessory
Products from authorised dealers are tested for safety and compatibility, which significantly reduces the risk of device failure or fire.
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