PETALING JAYA – The Communications and Digital Ministry and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) are in discussions with major online platforms to establish a licensing and regulatory framework.
In a statement today, the MCMC said these platforms include Meta and Google.
“Malaysia is also considering adopting a regulatory framework similar to those implemented in Australia and Canada,” read the statement.
A meeting was held at MCMC headquarters yesterday co-chaired by ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa and MCMC chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din.
Representatives from police, Meta and Google were also present, while a meeting is also scheduled to be held with TikTok.
“The meeting was to regulate and address the challenges posed by the evolving landscape of online media.
“These challenges include the dissemination of online harm pertinent to child sexual abuse material, online gambling, content inciting, race, royalty and religious issues.
“Others include those related to scams, phishing, sale and promotion of illegal drugs and prohibited substances, impersonation and the spread of disinformation and fake news.”
The MCMC said the passing of the world’s first Mandatory News Media Bargaining Code by Australia has led Google and Meta to make voluntary compensation agreements with news outlets.
“This has served as an example of the importance of fair compensation,” it said.
In April this year, a controversial government bill to overhaul Canadian broadcasting laws to regulate streaming services was also passed.
The bill makes changes to Canada’s Broadcasting Act. The legislation requires streaming services, such as Netflix and Spotify, to pay to support Canadian media content like music and TV shows.
“(The ministry) and MCMC are also working to address digital market challenges. These include the imbalance in income for traditional advertising income between digital platforms and the local media.
“This is to ensure fair compensation for news content creators,” added the MCMC. – The Vibes, September 5, 2023
