KUALA LUMPUR: The newly introduced Online Safety Act 2025 is a significant step in strengthening protections for internet users, especially children, but concerns remain about its impact on freedom of expression and privacy, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
Describing the Act as timely amid rising online risks, the social activist said the legislation reflects Malaysia’s commitment to making digital spaces safer and more accountable.
"It compels platforms and digital service providers to take greater responsibility for content on their networks, including the introduction of stronger safety tools, improved reporting mechanisms and age-appropriate protections," he said when contacted on Saturday (Dec 13).
He added that such measures are necessary as cyberbullying, online grooming, misinformation and digital exploitation have become increasingly prevalent, especially among young users.
However, Lee cautioned that regulatory mechanisms designed to protect users could also lead to unintended consequences if not carefully implemented.
He pointed out that broad definitions of “harmful” content may result in platforms removing legitimate material to avoid penalties, potentially limiting access to educational resources, nuanced discussions and socially important conversations.
"Excessive content filtering and mandatory age-verification systems may also raise concerns about privacy, data security and the collection of personal information," he said.
To ensure the law achieves its objectives without undermining fundamental freedoms, Lee suggested several improvements, including clearer definitions of harmful content to reduce ambiguity.
He also called for transparent reporting on content removals, an accessible appeals process and proportional compliance requirements that distinguish between large commercial platforms and smaller community-based sites.
"Small platforms cannot reasonably be expected to bear the same regulatory burden as global digital giants," he said.
Lee further emphasised the importance of digital literacy programmes to complement legislative measures, saying parents, educators and young people must be equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate the online environment safely and confidently.
"The Online Safety Act 2025 has the potential to enhance online wellbeing in Malaysia, but safety must be balanced with freedom, and regulation must go hand in hand with education.
"If implemented with transparency, fairness and proportionality, the Act can protect users without silencing the diversity and expression essential to a healthy digital society," he added.
