KUALA LUMPUR – The Communications and Multimedia Ministry has urged the public to practice self-control on over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as Netflix to curb the spread of Western culture (budaya kuning) and soft porn in the society.
Citing an example, Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa pointed out that Netflix provides age classification and audience advisory so that viewers can decide before watching the content.
“Thus, parents and guardians are encouraged to implement parental controls by placing access pins for all viewer profiles at home to ensure underaged children are not able to access unsuitable content,” Annuar said in yesterday’s parliamentary written reply.
It was further added that proposals to amend the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 also involve regulatory supervision on OTT platforms to overcome issues related to content and social media use.
Currently, the proposal is still being reviewed at the ministry level and the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
For now, it is explained that OTT platforms such as Netflix involve companies based outside of Malaysia’s jurisdiction.
Hence, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has in the meantime, taken administrative actions such as issuing takedown notices, and misuse of service reports to providers, as well as restricting access to certain websites.
“Nevertheless, these administrative actions are still subject to terms and conditions of service set by a particular platform.
“This happens to be a challenge faced by all countries,” Annuar said.
In addition to urging the public to practice self-control online, the Communications and Multimedia Ministry is focused on implementing advocacy programmes to ensure maturity when choosing content on OTT platforms.
Annuar was replying to a parliamentary question by Shaharizukirnain Abd Kamir (Setiu-PAS).
Shaharizukirnain queried the ministry over plans to amend legislation to filter online content on streaming and social media platforms to curb the spread of soft porn and Western culture in the community. – The Vibes, March 25, 2022
