KUALA LUMPUR: Social media and online messaging platforms with at least eight million users in Malaysia must apply for a licence from the government from August 1.
In a statement, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission said this is part of a new regulatory framework to ensure a safer online ecosystem.
MCMC said the licence requirement will be enforced from Jan 1, 2025.
"Failure to obtain a licence after the effective date would be an offence, and appropriate legal action can be taken under the Communications and Multimedia Act," it said.
MCMC said the regulatory framework is in line with the Cabinet's decision requiring social media and online messaging platforms to comply with Malaysian laws and combat cybercrime,
This includes scams and online fraud, cyberbullying, and sexual crimes against children.
"Previously, these services were exempted from licensing requirements based on the Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) (Exemption) Order 2000.
"This new regulatory framework only applies to services that meet the licensing eligibility criteria and does not involve its users."
Previously, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil called on social media and online messaging platforms to be more responsible and ensure their platforms are free from criminal elements.
In March, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said MCMC was finalising a framework for licensing all social media platform service providers operating in the country.
She said this was due to the availability of harmful content on social media platforms and online messaging services.