Content Forum releases inaugural guidelines on online curated content

PETALING JAYA: The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia has released its inaugural guidelines on online curated content (OCC) which functions as a self-regulation tool for content platforms.

It said the guidelines were "developed through extensive collaboration among industry leaders both local and international, it underscores the Content Forum's dedication to nurturing a dynamic creative content environment while ensuring compliance with Malaysian laws and regulations.

"The guideline's overarching principles encompass national and public interests, racial and religious sensitivities, as well as improved accessibility standards for persons with disabilities," the Content Forum said in a statement on Wednesday (Dec 20).

Other key points in the guidelines are:

– Content classifications: To aid parental guidance and allow for informed viewing choices, and service providers' exercise of self-classification.

– Safety features, ratings, and consumer advisory: Advocating for reasonable and clear safeguards to help viewers make informed content choices and use control measures.

– Content advertising and promotion: Ensuring content promotion materials adhere to relevant content codes and regulations, with consideration of underaged viewers.

– News and other factual content: Advocating for diverse perspectives, balanced presentations, and factual accuracy.

– Consumer protection and feedback mechanisms: Encourages consumer feedback mechanisms that are accessible, user-friendly, responsive and timely.

– Collaborative engagement: Championing open dialogue and engagement among relevant stakeholders.

Stakeholders involved in drafting the OCC guidelines praised the initiative's collaborative method.

"The dedication of the Content Forum and the working group underscores the power of industry cooperation in crafting meaningful guidelines," said Euan Smith, group chief executive officer of Astro.