Kuala lumpur: The sovereignty and security of Malaysia’s information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure are safeguarded under the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States, according to Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. She stated that all matters concerning ICT infrastructure, such as 5G and 6G coverage, communication satellites, and undersea cables, are fully regulated by Malaysian domestic laws, particularly the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo emphasized that the provisions of the Malaysia-US ART do not grant any party veto power over Malaysia’s security-related decisions. The agreement stipulates that Malaysia will only use communication technology suppliers that uphold security safeguards and protect ICT intellectual property infrastructure. The agreement requires consultation with the US on whether suppliers meet these demands, but Malaysia retains ultimate decision-making authority.
In another matter, Teo mentioned that Malaysia is awaiting feedback from social media companies regarding the implementation of an age verification system using the e-KYC process to finalize a minimum age of 16 for account registration. The country’s approach requires age verification using identity documents, differing from Australia’s document-free age assurance method set to begin on December 4.
Teo highlighted the importance of parental cooperation in monitoring children’s internet content, as banning social media accounts does not prevent internet use. She stressed the importance of political support for effective age verification.
To enhance digital literacy and address social media addiction among youth, the ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Home Affairs, and other agencies, has intensified the Safe Internet Campaign since January, targeting school students.
In other developments, Teo congratulated Malaysians who recently won six trophies at the 62nd Golden Horse Awards in Taiwan, noting that this achievement showcases the prominence of Malaysia’s film industry on the international stage. She mentioned that the film “Mother Bhumi,” produced by Janji Pictures and a recipient of the 2025 Creative Content Fund (DKK), won an award. The government plans to continue supporting quality film and creative content production through special grants like the National Citra Production Special Fund and the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI).