Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Communications is in the process of reviewing several key measures to enhance online safety through the implementation of user identity verification or authentication. Its Minister, Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said these measures are important to protect children from becoming victims of online sexual predators. He also expressed concern over the incident of a social media influencer who allegedly sent lewd pictures to a 14-year-old girl.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Minister stated, "I am concerned with what happened recently, where an influencer had contacted a 14-year-old with obscene messages and this is something that is happening in our society." He emphasized the need for awareness among young children about the potential dangers of social media, noting that while they often look up to influencers, some may exploit this admiration. This sentiment was shared during the ministry's monthly gathering.
It was previously reported that police are carrying out further investigations regarding the case involving the social media influencer who allegedly sent obscene messages to several individuals, including minors. Meanwhile, Fahmi advised the ministry's staff to deactivate the social media accounts of their children aged below 13 to avoid any untoward incidents, besides controlling their children's use of the WhatsApp application.
Fahmi also highlighted the ministry's role in the ongoing 46th ASEAN Summit, ensuring good internet access and coverage. "I have seen firsthand our efforts to ensure that internet access, including 5G, at the International Media Centre is in excellent condition," he remarked, acknowledging reports of wifi issues but assuring continued support to improve access.
At the event, Fahmi officiated the new name of the Ministry of Communications building from Kompleks Kementerian Komunikasi to Menara Komunikasi, symbolizing connectivity and technological progress. Also present were Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, and Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.