KUALA LUMPUR: The regulatory framework for Internet messaging service and social media service has been gazetted today and will come into effect on Jan 1, 2025.
In a statement, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission said the regulatory framework was introduced to combat the increasing cases of cybercrime, including online fraud and gambling, cyberbullying, and sexual crimes against children.
"With the enforcement of this framework, all Internet messaging service providers and social media service providers with at least eight million users in Malaysia must apply for an Applications Service Provider Class Licence under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588). Any service provider operating without a licence after this period is committing an offence and appropriate legal action can be taken," it said.
During the grace period (Aug 1, 2024 to Dec 31, 2024), MCMC said it will develop comprehensive guidelines detailing the conduct requirements and responsibilities that must be proactively adhered to by the said service providers in Malaysia.
"Proposed requirements include having robust measures on user data protection, age assurance to restrict users under 13 years old from accessing the platforms of the said service providers, addressing online harm and enhancing content moderation," it said.
Additionally, measures to simplify user complaint procedures and reduce response time as well as to manage deepfakes and harmful content generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) must also be emphasised by the said service providers, MCMC said.
In developing these guidelines, a public consultation will be conducted by MCMC.
"All stakeholders including civil society organisations (CSO), non-governmental organisations (NGO), service providers and members of the public are invited to provide feedback once the process commences," it added.
MCMC reiterated that end users of the said service providers will not be affected by the new regulatory framework and only service providers (e.g: Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Telegram, TikTok, WeChat, WhatsApp, X and YouTube) are required to obtain a licence from MCMC if they meet the licensing criteria.
"Users on the other hand will benefit from enhanced security features and a better user experience as a result of service providers' proactive compliance with Malaysian laws. Users can expect a safer online environment and clearer channels of complaint regarding online harm," it said.