SEPANG: The government is firm on its stance to licence social media platform and will not delay its implementation, says Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
This was in response to Asia Internet Coalition's (AIC) recent letter to the government stating concerns about the increased regulations for social media platforms.
The group represented tech giants like Meta, Google, Apple and Snap.
"AIC is not representative of all tech platforms but a few, and some of its members are not related to social media platforms," he said here during an engagement session at Kampung Orang Asli Kelinsing on Tuesday (27 Aug).
He pointed out that MCMC has responded to the letter.
When asked if the regulatory framework will be delayed, Fahmi said no.
He highlighted that he is open to discuss with AIC about their concerns on the regulations.
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According to him, this is the third letter from AIC, which has received less backing from its members compared to the first letter late last month.
He reiterated that during his visit to Singapore recently, he had received positive feedback with representatives from social media companies during their meeting.
"In my discussions with representatives of the companies (social media and internet messaging platforms) when we met in Singapore recently, they had positive views, and I maintain that stance.
"It is quite strange and even awkward when Grab issued a statement saying they are not involved (with the letter sent by AIC), and this was not discussed. We leave it to AIC to address the matter," he said.
When asked if he is worried about tech companies pulling out from Malaysia, he said the government has thought through all aspects and is still open for discussions and proposals.
"In my meeting with social media representatives during my visit in Singapore, they are willing to have a discussion with us," he said.
While the government is open to having discussions with those from the industry, he said that the government maintains its stance to regulate social media platforms and Internet messaging systems to ensure a safer Internet for Malaysians, especially children and families.
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He also highlighted that some Western countries like the United Kingdom are considering tightening regulations on social media.
The Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that all social media services and Internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for a Class Licence beginning Aug 1.
Failure to obtain a Class Licence for Application Service Providers under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 after the effective date would be an offence, said MCMC, adding that appropriate legal action can be taken under the Act.
The enforcement is effective on Jan 1 next year.
