KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is engaged in ongoing discussions with messaging service provider Telegram to strengthen collaboration in the fight against cybercrimes, says Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
He said that Telegram had shown increased willingness to collaborate with enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies following actions taken against its founder, Pavel Durov.
"During a recent meeting with the French ambassador, we discussed the measures implemented by French courts against Durov. It was highlighted that Telegram is now more willing to cooperate with enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies," he said during a press conference after officiating the 2024 World Post Day celebration today.
Fahmi was responding to a question about a United Nations report indicating that a crime network in Southeast Asia has been using Telegram for illicit activities, including investment scams, drug trafficking, and child pornography.
This report highlighted recent allegations against the controversial encrypted app, particularly after France charged Durov under a stringent new law addressing criminal activity on the platform.
Fahmi also clarified that the government had no current plans to pursue legal action against staff from social media platforms, including Telegram, provided they cooperate in addressing these issues.
Furthermore, he said that starting Jan 1, 2025, all social media platforms and messaging services with over eight million users in Malaysia would be required to obtain a licence from the MCMC.
"We are developing a code of conduct, with the first draft expected by the end of October, which social media platforms will have time to review. They will have two months to register with the MCMC, and failure to do so may result in legal action," he added.