KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian government’s initiative to require social media platforms to obtain a regulatory licence from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is designed to bolster the nation’s ability to safely navigate the digital landscape.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the anonymity and accessibility offered by social media have facilitated an increase in child grooming and the dissemination of exploitative content. Statistics from the Royal Malaysia Police’s Cyber Crime and Anti-Trafficking Unit indicate a troubling rise in these crimes annually, highlighting the necessity for more stringent controls.
Dr. Azian Muhamad Adzmi, a senior lecturer at Universiti Utara Malaysia’s School of Multimedia Technology and Communication, emphasized that this licensing framework not only ensures accountability but also provides opportunities to enhance digital literacy among citizens. This dual approach aims to tackle online fraud and misinformation while upholding free speech. She noted that Malaysia’s move signals a commitment to becoming a leader in digital governance, comparable to international efforts such as Australia’s Digital Services Act.
Dr. Azian highlighted that public awareness campaigns and partnerships with educational institutions are crucial for empowering citizens with the skills needed to identify scams and misinformation. The proposed framework aims to create clear guidelines for platforms, foster collaboration with tech stakeholders, and invest in public digital literacy, striving for a balance between regulation and empowerment.
The initiative is not merely a regulatory measure but a step towards accountability in social media use, ensuring a safer digital environment. It positions Malaysia as a potential model for other countries facing similar digital challenges and could ignite a global dialogue on digital governance.
In addressing children’s online safety, Dr. Haezreena Begum Abdul Hamid, a criminologist and Deputy Dean at Universiti Malaya, stressed the importance of parental involvement in monitoring children’s online activities. She warned of the dangers of “sharenting” and the potential for children to suffer long-term emotional consequences from exposure to online sexualization.
Dr. Haezreena pointed out that while Malaysia’s Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 addresses child sexual abuse materials, a more holistic approach is required. The rise of artificial intelligence exacerbates the issue, allowing offenders to exploit technology to groom children online.
She called for ongoing awareness initiatives for both parents and the government and suggested mandatory counselling programs for offenders to address the root causes of their behavior. Dr. Haezreena emphasized that understanding the psychological aspects of offenders is essential in preventing future crimes.
The licensing requirement, aligned with international best practices, represents a significant step in Malaysia’s efforts to enhance digital safety and accountability, promoting a safer online environment for all citizens.