MCMC’s new regulatory framework ensures safer digital landscape for M’sians

KUCHING (Jan 13): The Internet has become both a cornerstone of communication and a platform fraught with challenges in today’s hyper-connected world.

Recognising the pressing need to regulate the online ecosystem, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has introduced a new regulatory framework which required all social media and internet messaging platforms with at least eight million registered users in the country to apply for an Applications Service Provider Class license under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

This bold initiative aims to curb harmful content including cybercrimes and online scams, safeguard users, and foster trust in the digital landscape.

Sarawak Skills Development Centre editorial director Stanley Gona Chee Kiong commended the efforts of MCMC, describing the Internet as the “Wild West” where malicious and unscrupulous individuals prey on unsuspecting and right-minded netizens.

“The new licensing requirements are an important step forward in the right direction.

“This will go a long way towards ensuring that service providers are responsible for creating a safer online ecosystem for their users,” he told The Borneo Post.

He said the licensing regulations pave the way for various initiatives to create a safer social media environment without affecting one’s freedom of expression or speech and related liberties.

“The online environment is here to stay, and the relevant stakeholders must take the lead to ensure that it is safe for all.”

He pointed out that through the new regulation, this will facilitate the creation of a safer online environment for users.

“For example, fresh initiatives to deal with harmful content, combat cybercrime such as scams, online fraud, cyberbullying and sexual crimes against children, etc; and enhance data protection,” said Stanley.

Venu Puthankattil, a communications manager of a private company, described MCMC’s move to implement a licensing requirement for social media and internet messaging services as a “bold yet justified initiative by the Madani government to regulate social media platforms”.

“The Internet at its dawn was largely unregulated and left open to abuse and misuse. We have come far since then with more advanced technologies and normalised practices in social media.

“With these great capabilities and power at our fingertips, there is a clear need to be more careful and responsible in our use of social media. Therefore, a step up in regulation via licensing requirements is the right move,” he said.

With the regulations enforced, he said social media platforms are now more responsible, liable, answerable to the content that is published on their platforms.

“Social media has become a powerful tool for certain quarters such as activists and special interest groups to drive their agenda to the masses.

“We have seen this in the run up to elections, political campaigns, consumer groups and initiatives for social justice. All manner of hate speech, false information and half truths flood the internet and polarise segments of society.”

He said a social media platform that hosts content that breaks the prevailing laws should be questioned and possibly sanctioned.

“The possibility of legal action and even revocation of its license will compel a platform to be more vigilant of the content it hosts and more responsible with censorship of illegal content.”

In addition to the social media platforms, users would also be more careful and responsible with their content, he said.

“Better awareness and self-censorship should in effect create a better environment,” he added.

Venu noted that netizens should always practice due diligence and good judgement when browsing social media posts and making any decisions on the content.

“The framework will not completely eradicate abuse or cybercrime as resourceful groups and individuals will find ways to post illegal or unethical content while escaping detection,” he said.

Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) marketing manager Abby Beti Philip said the measures taken by MCMC will not only help combat false information and online fraud but also enhance user trust, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

“While licensing regulations are essential, it’s equally crucial to ensure that they don’t stifle freedom of speech.

“Collaboration and public involvement will be key to achieving this equilibrium,” she said.

She said the positive ripple effects of the regulation extend beyond user safety as with the reduced number of scams, this can boost confidence in online shopping and digital interactions, thus driving economic growth.

“MCMC’s proactive measures pave the way for Malaysia to strengthen its position in the digital economy by fostering an environment of trust and accountability,” she said.

Stressing that public awareness and education remain critical in this digital evolution, Abby suggested that innovative awareness campaigns be organised together with content creators to educate the public on how to identify and avoid scams.

“Start young with simple steps like organising annual talks in schools for instance, can make a difference. Education is key to long-term success,” she said.

MCMC’s licensing requirements represent a significant milestone in creating a safer online environment in Malaysia. While challenges remain, such as ensuring fair implementation and maintaining freedom of expression, the groundwork has been laid for a collaborative and secure digital future.

Through collaboration, transparency, and continuous public engagement, MCMC’s efforts promise a digital space where Malaysians can thrive safely and confidently.