Sylvia Duruson
Malaysia has unveiled plans requiring social media and messaging platforms to obtain operating licenses by 2025. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) targets eight major platforms serving over eight million Malaysian users each. These platforms include Meta’s WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, along with X, YouTube, Telegram, WeChat, and TikTok.
The initiative emerges from Malaysia’s broader strategy to address rising cybercrime cases, including online gambling, fraud, cyberbullying, and crimes against children. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasized that platforms operating without licenses after 2025 will face legal consequences. The minister noted Meta’s substantial annual advertising revenue of 2.5 billion ringgit from Malaysian operations, suggesting platforms should comply with local regulations given their market benefits.
MCMC has published a comprehensive code of conduct focusing on online safety and security. The code specifically addresses harmful content, including hate speech, bullying, and content promoting violence or extremism. Platforms must submit biannual safety reports to demonstrate compliance with these regulations.
The regulatory framework faced initial resistance from platform operators citing unclear requirements and concerns about innovation constraints. Some platforms particularly questioned the requirement to establish local offices. Despite these objections, the Malaysian government maintains its position on implementing the new regulations.
These developments coincide with broader international trends in social media regulation. TikTok recently announced restrictions on beauty filters following concerns about their impact on teenage users’ self-image. Similar regulatory discussions are occurring globally, with countries like the United Kingdom and Australia considering age restrictions for social media access.
The Communications and Multimedia Amendment Bill 2024 recently passed in Malaysia’s Dewan Rakyat, though civil society groups have expressed concerns about potential impacts on freedom of expression and privacy rights. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching clarified that mandatory identity verification for social media users is not planned, acknowledging implementation challenges.
The MCMC emphasizes that this code of conduct will undergo regular reviews to maintain effectiveness in addressing both current and emerging online challenges. The commission incorporated public feedback in developing these regulations, aiming to create a safer online environment while balancing various stakeholder interests.
