If you dare break the law, be prepared to face the music.
This was the warning issued by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil following reports of a surge in accounts distributing and selling local pornographic content, including child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
"If you break the law, you can be taken to court, and the consequences are severe," Fahmi said.
"Do you really want to throw your life away? Do you really want to jeopardise your future for short-term income?"
Fahmi attributed the involvement of individuals producing such content to "legal illiteracy".
"I think they don't understand how this constitutes a crime. They think it is just about earning money on the side."
The New Straits Times has, over the past few days, exposed the widespread presence of pornographic content on social media, including CSAM.
The growing demand for such explicit material and the lack of safeguards on these platforms have heightened parents' concerns about their children's safety.
Investigations revealed numerous Malaysian accounts offering explicit material, including storyline-driven content rivalling international productions.
This trend is raising fears that Malaysia could become a hub for illicit content, posing significant risks to children online.
Fahmi said authorities would not remain silent and would continue to monitor the situation closely and take action against account owners found soliciting and profiting from the distribution of explicit content.
He also called on parents to play a more active role in supervising their children, especially those who are underaged.
"Many parents think devices can act as nannies. They believe that kids will be able to look after themselves. That's absolutely not the case."
Fahmi said above all, social media platforms need to play a bigger role by ensuring safety features are easily accessible and activated.
He said some platforms have yet to demonstrate genuine commitment to supporting Malaysian laws, cooperating only when it is convenient for them or benefits their interests.