When the Spin Goes Wrong: Rethinking Legal Liability in Malaysia’s Self-Service Laundromats

Self-service launderettes have proliferated throughout Malaysia due to their convenience and low operational costs. The characteristics of these unsupervised properties pose intricate liability issues, especially in the event of incidents like explosions, equipment failures, or property damage. This article examines the legal framework regulating laundromat owner liability in Malaysia, specifically the Consumer Protection Act 1999 (CPA 1999), emphasising the principles of product and premises liability. It objectively analyses prevalent incidents, including gas explosions, damage to consumer clothing, and service-related hazards, such as insufficient maintenance and inadequate safety measures, while also pointing out the adverse effects of exclusion clauses employed by owners to restrict liability. The article employs doctrinal analysis and specific case situations while integrating a comparative viewpoint from different countries, highlighting the divergent methods of regulating fault-based responsibility, particularly with laundromat owners’ responsibility. Based on the findings, it appears that the legal framework in Malaysia does not provide sufficient clarity and enforcement strength when it is applied to situations involving self-service. The article concludes with recommendations for modifications, urging for enhanced regulatory compliance, clearer statutory guidelines on exclusion clauses, and the necessity for tailored legal protections to ensure consumer interests are safeguarded in automated laundry service settings.