Non-governmental organisations have urged government ministries to adopt a more open approach and accept criticisms.

"We are not telling them how to do their jobs, so there is no need to get offended during our discussions," said Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) supreme council member Mohd Saiful Abdullah.

Saiful, who is also Consumers Association of Pahang secretary-general, said it would be good to have more forums, dialogues and meetings at the district and state levels between NGOs and the government.

He was reacting to Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Mohamed Shafie Apdal's statement on Tuesday urging NGOs to provide constructive criticism and not to go public with their grouses.

The minister said this while calling for a better working relationship with consumer-related organisations. He added that this would ensure government policies be implemented effectively.

Saiful said a proper channel to express the complaints and views of consumers is essential and ministries must be able to openly receive comments from NGOs.

"The ministries must understand the role of NGOs," he added.

He also urged consumers associations' to actively participate at the district level as this is one of the channels that play a pivotal role in protecting consumer rights.

'Tricky' issues

Meanwhile, Fomca communications head Mohd Yusof Abdul Rahman also called for a more open approach.

"The good relationship we have does not mean that we cannot not voice the consumers' problems openly," he said.

He added that an open concept will help foster closer ties and ensure that customers will benefit.

"There should be more opportunities for NGOs to voice out their opinions directly to the government," he stressed.

On the same note, Mohd Yusof said its 'tricky' to raise toll hikes and water supply issues.

"There have been some policies which have been implemented without consulting or discussing with NGOs.

"The purpose in getting everyone to discuss is to avoid objections and dissatisfaction among consumers," he added

"Cases that have arisen from dissatisfied customers reflect a lot on the grassroots." he said.