SOCIAL media users will soon have the opportunity to challenge content removal decisions on platforms under the proposed Online Safety Bill 2024, announced Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
Teo revealed that a dedicated platform will be established to allow account holders to file complaints if their content is taken down, and to provide justifications for why their posts should not be removed.
This new system is part of the upcoming Online Safety Act.
"Under the proposed Online Safety Act, we will create a platform where anyone whose content has been removed can file a complaint with the tribunal to defend why their post should not have been taken down," Teo said.
“Not all decisions regarding content removal would fall under the jurisdiction of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). The new platform will provide a check-and-balance system, allowing users to challenge MCMC's decisions,” she added.
Teo said this in response to questions raised by Datuk Wan Saifulruddin Wan Jan (PN-Tasek Gelugor), who had concerns over licensing requirements for internet service providers and social media platforms which could potentially be used by the government to suppress unfavorable content, particularly during election periods in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Teo explained that MCMC is currently conducting a thorough review to address enforcement issues related to the licensing framework.
“We are in the process of engaging with platform providers, and discussions have begun with Meta (which operates Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp), X, and Google,” Teo said.
"X disputes claims that they have eight million Malaysian users on their platform and argues that they need not apply for the license.
“So, MCMC needs to conduct its own survey to verify the actual number of users to counter X’s argument and ensure they comply with the licensing framework, she said."
Teo added the review is necessary to ensure the fair application of the licensing process and to address concerns related to the actual number of users on these platforms. - March 3, 2025
