KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has introduced a new Code of Conduct (Best Practice) for Internet Messaging Service Providers and Social Media Service Providers, which includes age verification measures aimed at ensuring child safety.
However, the measures must be implemented "with due respect to the privacy of child users" and in line with industry best practices, the MCMC said in a statement.
The code, aimed at supporting the regulatory framework for digital service providers, outlines best practices to address harmful online content and ensure online safety, particularly for children and vulnerable groups.
"This initiative reflects the commission's commitment to fostering a safer and more secure online environment for all Malaysians," the statement said.
The code stipulates best practices that service providers with more than 8 million users, now required to be licenced under the Communications and Media Act 1998, must adhere to.
These measures include "clear and robust systems, mechanisms, and procedures" to safeguard against harmful content, accessibility features for users with disabilities, and identification and removal of "any potential risks of online harm on their platforms before such risks materialise."
Service providers are also required to maintain records of harmful content removal, conduct regular audits to assess compliance, and submission of half-yearly safety reports to the MCMC.
The development of the code was informed by feedback from the public consultation process, which MCMC described as invaluable.
"The input helped ensure the code reflects the evolving challenges in the online environment," the statement added.
Over the last few days, the New Straits Times ran an exposé on social media's role in the thriving porn trade and the alarming rise of child pornography. The expose exposed that such material is easy to access in Malaysia, with videos being sold on social media platforms for merely RM1. The growing demand for such content is dangerously fuelling the production of locally made child pornography, raising concerns about children's safety.
MCMC said it is also committed to guiding the adoption of the code to maximise its effectiveness and pledged periodic reviews to keep it relevant in tackling emerging digital threats.
The code is accessible at https://www.mcmc.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/Resources/MCMC_Code-of-C...
On Wednesday (Dec 18), MCMC released the Public Consultation Report on the draft for the Code following the completion of a public consultation period, which concluded on Nov 5.