Kuala lumpur: All Internet messaging and social media service providers with eight million or more users in Malaysia will be automatically deemed registered as Class Licence holders for Application Service Providers [ASP(C)] from January 1, 2026. This follows the implementation of the deeming provision under Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) stated that this move aims to ensure large-scale service providers offering Internet messaging and social media services in Malaysia operate within the country's legal and regulatory framework in an orderly, consistent, and effective manner.

The MCMC explained that this approach aligns with the licensing framework for Internet messaging and social media service providers enforced from January 1, 2025, to strengthen accountability and compliance with Malaysian laws. The commission emphasized that the deeming provision is intended to ensure all relevant platforms assume clearer responsibility for user safety, particularly in protecting children and families.

The implementation of the deeming provision will apply to service providers that meet the stipulated criteria, including major platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, effective January 1, 2026. The MCMC noted that service providers already registered as ASP(C) licence holders will remain registered, and the deeming provision will only take effect after the expiry of their existing registration period.

Additionally, the commission stressed that affected service providers will continue to operate through their respective global platforms as usual. This approach is consistent with international practices in regulating large-scale online platforms. The MCMC also highlighted its ongoing collaboration with service providers and law enforcement agencies to enhance online safety, particularly for children and families, for the benefit of all users in Malaysia.