IN a major effort to improve cybersecurity and ensure a safer digital environment, the MADANI Government has pledged to continue strengthening online protections for Malaysians.
As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Communications has launched the *Online Safety Campaign Roadshow, an initiative led by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
This campaign aims to raise awareness about internet safety across the nation and will be rolled out in more than 10,000 schools and all public universities.
In a statement today, the ministry said: “The campaign seeks to engage people of all ages and backgrounds, highlighting the critical importance of secure internet use.
“The Ministry's ambitious outreach program will also be extended to communities nationwide, equipping the public with the knowledge and tools needed to stay safe online.
Key areas of focus for the campaign include:
- Restricting Social Media Access for Children: Children under 13 years old will no longer be permitted to create social media accounts. The government emphasizes the importance of adult supervision when it comes to internet usage for young people;
- Combatting Online Threats: Raising awareness to prevent individuals from falling victim to online scams, cybercrime, online gambling, cyberbullying, and the growing concern of child exploitation by pedophiles; and
- Promoting Safe and Ethical Internet Use: Encouraging all internet users to practice responsible and ethical behaviour while online, with a focus on protecting both personal and public digital spaces.
In honour of Internet Safety Day 2025, the ministry also announced the recent amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), which was gazetted on February 7, 2025, and will come into effect on February 11, 2025.
These legal updates are designed to enhance the country's internet ecosystem by providing stronger safeguards for users, particularly children and families, against online threats.
The urgency of these amendments is highlighted by the alarming number of cybercrimes reported in 2024.
Last year, a staggering 35,368 cybercrime cases were reported, resulting in losses exceeding RM1.5 billion.
The government believes that these amendments are timely and necessary to curb the rising tide of digital threats.
The Government is calling on all Malaysians to support these initiatives and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families from online dangers. By working together, the country hopes to create a safer, more sustainable digital landscape for everyone. – February 11, 2025
