Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the Ministry of Health (MOH) in addressing the escalating issue of social media addiction, particularly concerning its impact on users’ mental health, a matter discussed in the Dewan Negara today. Deputy Minister of Communications, Teo Nie Ching, highlighted the necessity of this collaboration, given the MCMC and the Ministry of Communications’ lack of expertise in mental health matters.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo mentioned that while MCMC can establish guidelines and regulate platform providers to ensure safer standards for users under 18, adult users should assume personal responsibility for their online choices. This statement was made in response to Senator Tuan Azahar Hassan, who inquired about the ministry’s actions to combat social media addiction and its negative effects on behavior, mental, and physical health.
Teo emphasized MCMC’s commitment to raising public awareness and promoting responsible social media use through various educational initiatives. Efforts include organizing skill training sessions for parents, guardians, and educators through national programs such as ‘Klik Dengan Bijak’ (KDB) and the Malaysia ICT Volunteers (MIV). These programs aim to equip participants with knowledge on online child protection, enabling them to educate children about online safety and balanced internet usage.
Furthermore, the Communications Ministry, via MCMC, launched the Online Safety Campaign Tour on January 21, targeting diverse societal segments with programs and activities designed to enhance online safety awareness. This campaign promotes safe and balanced internet use through talks, training, collaborations with social media influencers, and the use of specialized educational materials developed by MCMC.
Additionally, the ministry has partnered with social media service provider TikTok and the Local Social Support Centre (PSSS) under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM). During the campaign tour, the PSSS mobile unit provides psychosocial services, such as guidance and counseling sessions, offering immediate relief on various social issues, including mental health.