CYBERJAYA — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is dedicated to fostering a secure, innovative, and inclusive digital ecosystem that benefits all users.
The licensing requirement for social media and Internet messaging service providers (Service Providers) with a threshold of eight (8) million users was decided based on the need to regulate Service Providers with significant impact on the Malaysian digital ecosystem. The formulated class license application threshold applies to the Service Providers and no registration is required by the end users.
This regulatory framework was introduced as a key step towards a safer online environment, including addressing online gambling, scams, and pornography. The regulatory framework was designed to ensure the online ecosystem remains open, secure, and trustworthy for all users while encouraging innovation and investment.
The cabinet approval for the regulatory framework was obtained on 8th March 2024. Since then, MCMC has consistently engaged with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including Service Providers, Society Organisations (CSO), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO), Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA).
MCMC will be undertaking a Public Inquiry exercise to solicit feedback from all relevant parties to ensure that the final framework is fair, effective, and reflective of the needs of both the industry and the public. These ongoing engagements have been vital in developing a regulatory framework that addresses the needs and concerns of all parties.
MCMC has provided a five-month grace period to allow platforms sufficient time to comply with the licensing requirements. Within this period, MCMC will continue to actively engage with Service Providers to facilitate a smooth transition into the new regulatory framework by 1st January 2025. Considering this, MCMC urges Service Providers to make every effort to ensure their operations align with local laws and regulations.
Detailed information regarding the regulatory framework and MCMC’s response letter dated 27 August 2024 to issues raised by Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) in their letter dated 23rd August 2024 can be found on MCMC’s website via this link at https://www.mcmc.gov.my/en/media/press-releases/mcmc-commitment-to-a-safe-and-inclusive-online.
For further enquiries, contact: policy.review@mcmc.gov.my.
