Licensing framework for online service providers being fine-tuned, says Deputy Minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Plans to enforce licensing on online service providers are currently being fine-tuned, says Teo Nie Ching.

The Deputy Communications Minister told Parliament that the matter is currently being reviewed and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is in the midst of finalising the licensing framework.

"This proposal aims to target social media providers and Internet Messaging Services (IMS) accessible to users in the country, based on predefined assessment criteria," she said in reply to a question from Datuk Shamsulkahar Mohd Deli (BN-Jempol) during the Minister's Question Time.

Shamsulkahar had asked whether the ministry had decided to require all social media platform service providers operating in the country to register with MCMC.

Teo said that the targeted licensing enforcement is considered proportionate given the high prevalence of harmful content on social media and messaging platforms.

"These regulatory measures are intended to enhance online safety and address content that violates national laws. They align with current global approaches and developments and are not intended to restrict media freedom," she noted.

In November last year, the Communications and Digital Ministry announced that it was considering making it mandatory for all social media platform service providers in the country to register with the MCMC.

Its Minister Fahmi Fadzil said this move is deemed appropriate to ensure all social media platforms understand and comply with aspects of the country’s legislation.