Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Communications has reported receiving cooperative engagement from internet messaging and social media service providers, whether licensed or still in the licensing process, in its initiative to create a safer and more sustainable internet environment for users, as conveyed to the Dewan Rakyat.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Fahmi Fadzil highlighted YouTube's efforts, noting the removal of 5,115 pieces of content, including gambling advertisements, from a total of 5,167 requests for removal between January 1 and February 12. He contrasted this with Telegram's response, where only 39 percent of the requests were addressed. Fahmi explained that different platforms have varying capabilities, with Telegram having a smaller team for content moderation compared to others.
Fahmi also emphasized the importance of understanding both the regulatory framework and operational context for these platforms to help streamline necessary actions. He announced that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has mandated that starting January 1, 2025, social media and internet messaging service providers with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for an Application Service Provision Class Licence. This measure is aimed at ensuring compliance with obligations under Act 588 and adherence to the Code of Conduct (Best Practices) by MCMC, thereby enhancing accountability for online content and interactions.
Additionally, Fahmi reported that 5,026 gambling websites were blocked through collaboration with Internet service providers from 2022 to February 1 of this year, while 224,403 pieces of gambling content on social media platforms were removed in the same period. He assured that MCMC is actively monitoring to maintain an internet environment free from illegal content, including online gambling.
Fahmi further stated that MCMC is committed to supporting the police by taking down social media content, blocking websites, and providing technical assistance, information, and digital forensic analysis to expedite investigations related to online gambling offences.