Kuala lumpur: The Communications and Multimedia (Amendment) Bill 2026 is deemed essential for bolstering the existing legal framework amid the complexities of the communications and multimedia landscape, according to Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister Teo presented the Bill for its second reading in the Dewan Rakyat, emphasizing the necessity of the amendments. These changes aim to address existing challenges such as cybersecurity threats, geopolitical tensions, and the nation's increasing reliance on communications infrastructure.

The amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) are designed to ensure the Universal Service Provision (USP) framework remains relevant and capable of addressing current requirements, particularly concerning national security. Teo highlighted that the USP framework has historically expanded communications infrastructure nationwide, enhancing accessibility and affordability while fueling the growth of the digital economy.

Teo pointed out that the communications landscape has become more intricate with the nation's growing dependency on networks, application services, and infrastructure. This evolution necessitates a regulatory framework that is responsive and aligned with contemporary needs. She warned of risks such as service disruptions, security breaches, and data leaks if network facilities and services are not adequately coordinated and regulated.

The current Chapter 5 of Part VIII of Act 588 lacks provisions for implementing national-level USP initiatives focused on national security. To address this, the government proposes the National Universal Service Provision Initiative, empowering the Minister to direct the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to support national security initiatives.

The proposed initiative aims to enhance the existing USP framework without creating a new one, concentrating on network facilities and service provision. Teo clarified that decisions on national security matters would require determination by the National Security Council, as outlined in the National Security Council Act 2016 (Act 776). The amendments would provide a legal basis for MCMC to implement the National USP Initiative, with licensees under Act 588 remaining pivotal in the execution.

The Communications and Multimedia (Amendment) Bill 2026 proposes amendments to Section 202 of Act 588, introducing new subsections and allowing the Minister to regulate the initiative's implementation.