THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has obtained an interim injunction from the High Court to prevent the republication of content from two Telegram channels - Edisi Siasat and Edisi Khas.
The two channels were identified as spreading content that was found to violate provisions under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 which has the potential to erode trust in the country’s public institutions and affect public order.
In a statement, the commission said the move was a last resort to stop the spread of harmful content and to prevent the republication of similar material.
“This action is the first of its kind taken against a social media platform provider, especially as Telegram is an Application Service (Class) [“ASP(C)”] licensee.
"Telegram will be given the opportunity to present its defence in line with the principles of justice and fundamental rights," it said.
This follows Telegram’s serious failure to address the content that has been repeatedly reported to them, despite various efforts of negotiation and cooperation made by MCMC.
“Following the unsatisfactory level of compliance, MCMC has applied for and successfully obtained an interim injunction order from the High Court as a last resort to stop the dissemination of the harmful content and prevent the re-publication of such content.
"As the regulatory authority, MCMC wishes to remind all social media platform providers that they are responsible for the content published on their respective digital platforms.
"MCMC will not hesitate to take similar action against other platforms to ensure the safety and well-being of users continue to be protected," it added.
The commission also said it remains committed to ensuring that the country's digital space remains safe, ethical, and in compliance with the law. – June 19, 2025
