Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will continue its engagement sessions with social media platform providers to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations, which will be fully enforced from Jan 1, 2026, says Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, feedback received from platform providers following MCMC's engagements to date had been mixed, with some demonstrating a high level of cooperation in addressing problematic content, while others had shown a dearth of commitment. Fahmi emphasized that although social media platforms with over eight million users are no longer required to formally apply for a licence, Malaysian laws remain fully applicable to them to ensure accountability for the content and activities on their platforms.
He expressed concern over the rising online crime, noting that cases of online scams, sexual crimes against children, misuse of artificial intelligence technologies, and online gambling activities are on the rise. Fahmi also pointed out international reports that some platforms generate revenue from scam advertisements, raising questions about the responsibility of digital service providers.
Fahmi highlighted that the government sees justification in deeming all social media platforms as licensed entities, without a formal licensing process, but with full compliance to Malaysian laws. He recounted an instance where a representative of a major platform showed readiness to comply, but no action followed, stressing that victims of scams and AI abuse cannot wait.
He reiterated that all platforms with over eight million users must comply with Malaysian laws from Jan 1, 2026, and stressed the need for a clear accountability framework to protect the country's digital space. Fahmi called for cooperation from platform providers to ensure the internet is safe for everyone, emphasizing responsibility over control.
MCMC had previously announced that social media platforms and internet messaging services with over eight million users in Malaysia were no longer required to formally apply for an operating licence but remain fully subject to national laws, including the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and related legislation. The initiative aims to hold platform providers accountable for illegal content, online scams, false information, misuse of fake accounts, and crimes involving children, aligning with the government's efforts to enhance digital safety.