New licensing rules require social media providers to ensure safe online environment, says govt

KUALA LUMPUR: Social media and Internet messaging service providers will have the obligation to ensure a safe online environment once the new licensing requirement comes into force on Jan 1, next year.

The Communications Ministry, in a written reply at the Dewan Negara, said that under the licensing requirement enforced by the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), service providers were subject to conduct requirements in addressing harmful content to protect children, combat cyberbullying and harassment, and prevent the spread of false information.