PETALING JAYA: Malaysians will now be limited to owning up to five prepaid SIM cards per telco provider under the new registration framework introduced by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
The framework comes as part of the Commission Determination for the Mandatory Standards for the Registration of End-users of Prepaid Public Cellular Services (Mandatory Standards), which was registered today (Feb 26) by MCMC.
It will also further limit SIM ownership for non-Malaysians to two SIM cards per individual under each service provider.
In a media statement, MCMC says that the issuance of the Mandatory Standards is intended as a "decisive regulatory step" to address the misuse of SIM cards for fraudulent activities such as "online scams and identity-related offences".
"These strengthened requirements enhance safeguards against SIM-related fraud and are designed to better protect consumers from identity misuse, scams and unauthorised SIM use, while maintaining convenient access to mobile services."
"MCMC emphasises that the implementation of the Mandatory Standards takes into account a balanced approach between security requirements, easier user access and the protection of personal data," the agency says.
The Mandatory Standards further sets a framework that includes the use of biometrics and MyDigital ID during the prepaid SIM card self-registration process, requirements for a secure automated platform aiming to prevent fraudulent registrations, and further oversight on the registration of non-citizens through measures such as biometric-based passport verification.
Also under the standards include a prohibition on the SIM card registration of children under 12 years old, requiring parental or guardian registration for those between 12 to 17 years old, and notification of registration status to end-users within 12 hours.
Furthermore, SIM cards purchased by tourists will be capped on the validity period, with automatic termination once they exceed the maximum of three months.
"Service providers and their appointed dealers are reminded to ensure full and timely implementation of the Mandatory Standards, as any non-compliance may result in regulatory action to safeguard a safer and more secure communications ecosystem."
"MCMC also advises consumers to register prepaid SIM cards only through licensed service providers and authorised dealers, and to remain vigilant against unauthorised registration channels," it says.
