KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 20): The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) on Friday published a code of conduct aimed at ensuring that internet messaging and social media service providers uphold online safety and security, particularly for children and vulnerable groups.
In a statement, MCMC said the code of conduct was developed to support the regulatory framework for service providers, which sets out best practices for adoption by them in addressing harmful content online, as well as other relevant conduct requirements.
The publication of the Code of Conduct (Best Practice) for Internet Messaging Service Providers and Social Media Service Providers follows the publication of the public consultation report on the code two days ago.
“The commission appreciates the valuable feedback received during the public consultation process," the commission said. "The input from the public helped to ensure that the Code of Conduct (Best Practice) reflects the evolving challenges in the online environment while promoting a safer, more secure space for all Malaysians."
“The commission will provide guidance in the adoption of the Code of Conduct (Best Practice) to ensure its effectiveness in maintaining a safe and secure online environment,” it added.
MCMC said the code of conduct will be reviewed from time to time as appropriate, to ensure it remains relevant and effective in addressing emerging challenges.
The publication of the code follows the passage of the Communications and Multimedia (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Dewan Rakyat last week. The bill passed with a slim majority of 19 votes, after the Opposition called for a bloc vote. Civil society groups have raised concerns about the amendments, fearing they could infringe on rights related to freedom of expression and privacy.
In October, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching clarified that the government does not intend to mandate identity verification for social media users. Despite plans to require these platforms to apply for a licence by Jan 1, 2025, she said that enforcing such a requirement would be difficult, as online service providers currently do not ask users to verify their identities with documents.
Earlier in July, MCMC announced that social media platforms with over eight million users in Malaysia must apply for a licence as part of efforts to combat cybercrime. Platforms that fail to comply by Jan 1, 2025, may face legal action.
This move prompted the Asia Internet Coalition (AIC), an industry group that includes Google, Meta and X, to call on Putrajaya to pause the licensing plan. In an open letter, the group cited concerns over the lack of clarity regarding the proposed regulations.
Teo responded by rejecting AIC's claim that online service providers were not consulted on the licensing framework, describing it as "incorrect and untrue."
She pointed out that discussions with the AIC took place at the MCMC office on May 28, and the group submitted a response on June 26. Teo also reaffirmed that service providers were fully aware of the enforcement of the licensing framework under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.