Online safety: Everyone has a role to play

RECENTLY, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew who gave his assurance that the platform would step up efforts to combat cyberbullying and scams.

This is a welcome development. Of late, too many Malay-sians have fallen prey to scammers. These are real problems that affect people from all walks of life, and they need serious attention. TikTok’s commitment to collaborate with our government is a welcome move.

Initiatives like these can help make the digital space safer for everyone, which is something we can all agree on.

With TikTok’s (and presumably other platforms like Facebook and X’s) willingness to work with the authorities, the next question is whether licensing for social media is truly necessary. The Government has mandated these platforms to be licensed come next year.

So far, these social media platforms have resisted the Govern-ment’s plans and this impasse has created a lot of uncertainties, especially with the authorities’ threatening to pull the plug on errant companies, as a last resort.

Take small businesses and content creators, for example. Many Malaysians rely on platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok to run their businesses and earn a living. It’s how they reach customers, build their brands, and stay competitive. If the Government bans these platforms, won’t that trickle down to users and impact these hardworking entrepreneurs?

Then there’s the broader question of free speech. Social media has become a space where Malaysians can share their thoughts and ideas, whether it’s voicing concerns about national issues or simply engaging in healthy debates. Will licensing make platforms overly cautious in what they allow? Could it stifle creativity and open dialogue?

It’s also worth noting that platforms like TikTok are already stepping up to tackle harmful content without the need for licensing. Would it not be better to focus on building stronger partnerships and enhancing enforcement of existing rules rather than introducing new regulations?

At the end of the day, ensuring a safe digital space is something everyone wants. But as we move forward, let’s make sure the solutions don’t end up creating more challenges, especially for the people who rely on these platforms the most.

MOHD AKMAL SULAIMAN

Melaka