THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will continue its engagement with social media platform providers to ensure full compliance with national laws and regulations, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has confirmed.
The measures are set to be fully enforced from January 1, 2026.
In a detailed interview with Bernama, Fahmi revealed that feedback from platform providers following MCMC’s previous engagements has been mixed.
“There are platforms that are very proactive, but there are also those that ignore complaints or information that we submit,” he said, highlighting the inconsistency in how companies respond to problematic content.
While platforms with more than eight million users are no longer required to formally apply for an operating licence, Fahmi emphasised that Malaysian laws remain fully applicable to all social media services.
“The government wants to ensure that social media platforms operating in Malaysia are fully accountable for the content and activities on their respective platforms,” he said.
He expressed concern that online crime continues to escalate despite previous interventions.
“We have already given them opportunities… some have complied, while others offered excuses. But the reality is that online crime has not decreased; in fact, it is becoming increasingly worrying,” Fahmi said.
He cited a rise in online scams, sexual crimes against children, the misuse of artificial intelligence technologies such as deepfakes, and online gambling activities that are proving difficult to control.
The minister also referenced international reports indicating that some platforms generate revenue from scam advertisements, raising serious questions about the responsibilities of digital service providers.
“On that basis, and considering what is happening in other countries, the government sees justification in defining or deeming all social media platforms as licensed. There is no need to go through a licensing process, but the country’s laws apply,” he explained.
Addressing potential resistance from major global technology companies, Fahmi stressed that the government cannot afford delays while victims of scams and AI abuse continue to increase.
“I still remember that a day before Christmas 2024, a representative of a major platform contacted me and expressed readiness to submit their application, but a year passed without any action. Victims of scams and AI abuse cannot wait,” he said.
Fahmi emphasised that the new regulations apply to all platforms with over eight million users and are designed to establish a clear accountability framework to protect Malaysia’s digital space.
“I am of the view that all platforms must comply and cooperate to ensure the internet is safe for everyone, especially children and families. This is about responsibility, not merely control,” he said.
MCMC’s initiative aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure platform providers are responsible for addressing illegal content, including online scams, false information, misuse of fake accounts, and crimes involving children, while safeguarding the safety and integrity of the nation’s digital ecosystem. - December 28, 2025
