Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) does not directly regulate platform algorithms but instead emphasizes a risk-based regulatory approach, which places responsibility on licensed service providers to manage their systems.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching highlighted that this approach mandates licensed service providers to assess and manage the impact of their systems. They are required to take reasonable measures to mitigate the algorithmic amplification of content deemed unlawful or harmful to users. Teo addressed this issue in response to a supplementary question posed by Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Hatta Md Ramli during Question Time in the Dewan Negara.

Teo elaborated on the Risk Mitigation Code, which obliges licensed service providers to conduct risk assessments. These assessments must consider the testing and adjustment of platform algorithms and recommendation systems. MCMC will also review the Online Safety Plans submitted by each licensed service provider to ensure the effectiveness and compliance with regulatory standards.

She further noted that all license holders have a 180-day timeframe from the enforcement of subsidiary legislation on July 1 to submit their Online Safety Plans to the commission. "We will wait until the end of this year to examine the plans submitted by license holders to determine whether the plans they have submitted are sufficiently robust," Teo stated.

From January 1, internet messaging and social media service providers with eight million or more users in Malaysia are classified under a Class Licence for Application Service Providers (ASP) Class C, as stipulated by Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.