Kuala lumpur: ASEAN countries will coordinate several joint measures to strengthen efforts in addressing social media challenges after the 47th ASEAN Summit, scheduled to take place from October 26 to 28. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil emphasized the importance of this coordination, which will be implemented through the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on more responsible use of social media. This declaration is expected to be one of the key documents adopted at the summit.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Kuala Lumpur Declaration is the culmination of discussions among Ministers Responsible for Information held in May in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. During these discussions, most communications ministers from the ASEAN region concurred on the need for a joint strategy and coordinated steps to address current challenges related to social media.
Minister Fahmi highlighted the necessity for ASEAN countries to unite in creating similar or identical legislation and take immediate action. He noted that
despite differences in size and role among ASEAN countries, including those serving as regional operating centers for social media giants like Meta and TikTok, all are affected by online safety issues.
Fahmi stated that the region is collectively impacted by problems such as scams and online gambling on social media platforms. He expressed optimism that after the 47th ASEAN Summit, coordinated efforts among ASEAN ministers responsible for the information portfolio will effectively address these challenges.
Regarding the preparations for the upcoming summit, Fahmi reported that the overall readiness level is between 85 to 90 percent and is expected to reach full readiness by the official opening day. This includes completing technical requirements such as increased bandwidth and the installation of 5G facilities to ensure fast and stable Internet access for media practitioners throughout the conference.
Fahmi also announced plans to personally inspect the facilities and operations of the International Media
Center (IMC) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) on October 22. He will meet with media practitioners to provide the latest information on final preparations ahead of the summit.
In the meantime, Fahmi expressed satisfaction with the successful organization of the ASEAN Friendship Concert 2025, which he described as a symbol of brotherhood and regional unity ahead of the summit. He noted the participation of not only the 10 ASEAN nations but also Timor-Leste, which will officially join ASEAN on October 26. The concert showcased young talents from the Southeast Asian region, and Fahmi congratulated Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) for its successful execution.