I READ with interest the column, "Speak up when goods purchased are shoddy" (my paper, Oct 7).

It never ceases to amaze me that consumers usually do not bother to scrutinise the contents and origins of products before buying them.

Sometimes, it may be worthwhile to spend a little more on better-quality products from reliable sources and refrain from buying those from countries where food-safety standards are lax.

It is better to err on the side of caution than to seek redress from foreign manufacturers when one falls sick from eating their food products.

With the current melamine scandal in China, consumers should exercise extra caution and look out for the country of origin on products they buy, so that they can make an informed choice.

Ultimately, it is consumers' responsibility to protect their own interests. I believe today's consumers are better-educated and more aware of their rights.

Hence, they should not hesitate to speak up or make their dissatisfaction known whenever they come across goods or products that are shoddy or questionable.

Mr Sebastian Tan

For more my paper stories click here.