Malaysians are still watching their wallets – but they’re also watching livestreams and product videos before making a purchase.
According to a Shopee consumer survey, while 42% of respondents still value discounts and low prices, a greater number – 58% – now prioritise product quality and seller credibility when deciding if something is truly worth it.
This emerging trend of smart spending signals a new chapter in e-commerce: shoppers remain price-conscious, but they’re no longer buying blindly based on discounts alone.
Smart shoppers are more intentional, using digital tools to stretch every ringgit and ensuring valuable purchase decisions.
Validating Product Quality Through Social Proof
While price remains a key motivator, today’s shoppers aren’t just chasing discounts – they investigate product quality from readily available tools before buying.
Around 60% of Malaysians use built-in features like daily vouchers, cashback offers, Shopee Coins, and the ‘Lagi Murah’ tag to find the best deals. In fact, 79% of respondents reported stacking vouchers to maximise their savings, while 40% actively searched for the ‘Lagi Murah’ tag to ensure they’re getting the lowest possible price.
But here’s what’s new: shoppers are complementing these tools with deeper research and validation features, especially Shopee Live and Shopee Video.
Nearly 83% of users now use Shopee Live to help them decide what to buy. These livestreams provide more than just entertainment – with real-time demos, authentic seller interactions, and exclusive deals – they create a sense of trust that static product listings can’t replicate. It’s not just about what is cheapest, but why it’s worth buying.
Short-form content, like Shopee Video, serve as quick, credible reviews that further build buyer confidence. Around 70% of respondents trust creator recommendations, especially when backed by strong seller ratings and verified user reviews.
And when trying out new products or new sellers, nearly half of all respondents consider seller ratings and buyer reviews as their most important reference point. This shows a growing demand for social proof and transparency where product value includes social validation.
Redefining “Worth It”: Quality + Affordability = Smart Spending
This emerging trend marks a lasting evolution in Malaysian online shopping habits. Today’s consumers aren’t just clicking on the cheapest item – they’re evaluating, comparing, and looking for proof of product quality. That means offering compelling deals and investing in real-time engagement, informative content, and trust-building experiences.
This shift in smart shopping marks a lasting change. For brands and sellers, value is no longer just about price. It’s about layering affordability with trust.
