THE Ministry of Communications has reaffirmed that all investigations into potentially offensive social media content are conducted transparently and in full compliance with the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
Responding to a parliamentary query from Datuk Mohd Suhaimi Abdullah (Langkawi), Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil outlined the official investigation procedure employed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
“The MCMC is empowered to investigate any offence under Act 588, based on a First Information Report (FIR) received either from the public or referred by other enforcement agencies,” Fa said the Minister.
Investigations may involve potential offences under Section 233 of the Act, which addresses the online publication of content deemed obscene, indecent, false, menacing or offensive in character. “In such instances, MCMC may also provide technical support to other agencies such as the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM),” he said.
Authorised officers may conduct searches either by obtaining a court-issued warrant under Section 247 or in cooperation with the police under Section 248 of the Act.
“For individuals under investigation, MCMC may issue a notice under Section 255 requiring their attendance. Statements will then be recorded under Section 256 to assist in the inquiry,” the Minister explained.
Should preliminary evidence suggest a possible offence, MCMC or the police may seize the suspect’s communication devices for forensic analysis, which may yield technical evidence relevant to the case.
Completed investigation papers are subsequently referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) at the Attorney General’s Chambers for a decision on whether to proceed with prosecution or to consider other legal avenues, including the issuance of a compound.
“The MCMC conducts all investigations in accordance with due process, strictly adhering to the procedures set out in Act 588,” said Fahmi. “These processes are carried out thoroughly and transparently to uphold the principles of justice under the law.”
Separately, on the premise of the Government reaffirmed its commitment to expanding high-speed internet connectivity across Julau, Sarawak, particularly in underserved rural schools, through the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) and the Sarawak state-led SMART 600 initiative.
Responding to a parliamentary question by Datuk Larry Sng Wei Shien (Julau), Fahmi confirmed that as of 30 June 2025, 4G population coverage in Julau has reached 58.28%, with significant infrastructure upgrades ongoing to close the digital divide in the constituency.
“Under JENDELA, 43 out of 48 new communications towers in Julau have been completed and are operational, while 44 of 45 existing transmitter stations have been upgraded,” said the Minister. “Additionally, 1,391 out of 3,784 premises are now fibre-ready, and 46 locations are receiving satellite broadband via Broadband Wireless Access (BWA).”
He added that the remaining JENDELA upgrades would be completed in stages by the end of 2025.
On the 5G front, the Minister noted that rollout remains focused on high-density and industrial zones during the initial phase. “However, expansion to rural areas, including Julau, will proceed in phases depending on demand and infrastructure readiness,” he said.
In parallel with federal efforts, the Sarawak Government, through the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), is constructing 600 new towers under the SMART 600 programme.
As of June, 29 towers have been completed and 15 are under construction in Julau. A strategic collaboration agreement has also been signed between MCMC and SDEC to accelerate equitable digital access across the state.
The government is further boosting connectivity via fibre optic backbone infrastructure through the Point of Presence (PoP) initiative. “As of 14 July, 67 PoPs have been completed under Phase 1 and 356 out of 681 under Phase 2 across Sarawak,” said the Minister.
For Julau specifically, one PoP has been completed under Phase 1 and 11 out of 34 PoPs under Phase 2 have been delivered. “A total of 1,225 internet ports are now available for subscription, with the remainder expected by October 2025,” he said, noting speeds of up to 1Gbps.
Fahmi added by reiterating the Government’s commitment to ensuring that all Malaysians, including rural communities and schools in Julau, benefit from high-quality internet access to support effective digital learning and inclusion. - July 29, 2025
