Kuala lumpur: The government is examining the potential implementation of electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) identity verification for social media applications under three significant laws, including the Online Safety Act 2025 (Act 866), as announced by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. The other two laws under consideration are the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) and the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (Act 709).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi emphasized the importance of adhering to the legal framework and respecting due process. He has instructed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to thoroughly investigate the proposed eKYC application. Fahmi highlighted the dual focus of enhancing 5G access and ensuring a safer online environment, particularly for children and families, while discussing the 2026 Supply Bill (Budget 2026) for the Communications Ministry at the Dewan Rakyat.
Previously, the minister suggested that eKYC systems should be mandatory for social media platforms to verify user ages and identities. This move is aimed at protecting children under 13 and tackling online fraud. From January 2022 to October 15, MCMC submitted 1,521 requests to online platforms to remove offensive content involving children, achieving a 96 percent success rate in content removal.
Fahmi also reported that during the same period, MCMC submitted 2,881 takedown requests for pornographic content, resulting in the removal of 88 percent or 2,535 items. Additionally, 4,070 pornographic websites were blocked by platform providers at MCMC's request.
In response to inquiries about potential incentives for local films that gain international acclaim, Fahmi mentioned he would have the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) explore the suggestion. Furthermore, he noted Malaysia's intention to capitalize on its diplomatic influence post-ASEAN 2025 to promote local films regionally, by strengthening cooperation with ASEAN counterparts to enhance regional collaboration.