Knowledge Highlights 3 December 2024
New regulatory framework for social media services and internet messaging services providers
On 27 July 2024, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission published a media statement announcing that a new regulatory framework targeted at social media services and Internet messaging service providers (“Service Providers”) would be introduced on 1 August 2024 (“Regulatory Framework”).
On 1 August 2024, the following subsidiary legislation under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 were gazetted to give effect to the Regulatory Framework:
- Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2024, which amends the Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) Regulations 2000; and
- Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) (Exemption) (Amendment) Order 2024, which amends the Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) (Exemption) Order 2000.
The primary objective of the Regulatory Framework is to create a safer online environment for Malaysians, especially children and those vulnerable to online harm, and to combat the rise of cybercrimes in Malaysia. It seeks to hold the relevant Service Providers accountable in conducting their business operations in Malaysia, including effectively managing harmful content and strengthening processes to curb cybercrimes committed on their platforms.
To read our full article, which provides an overview of the Regulatory Framework, please click here.
Further information
This article has been prepared with the assistance of Senior Associate Ng Hong Syuen and Associate Yung Jia Heng.
