Cyberjaya, July 27 – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that a new regulatory framework will be introduced on August 1, 2024, with enforcement beginning on January 1, 2025. This initiative aims to combat the rise in cybercrime offenses, including scams, online fraud, cyberbullying, and sexual crimes against children.
In line with the Malaysian Cabinet’s decision, social media services and Internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must comply with these new regulations. The framework mandates that these services apply for a Class License for Application Service Providers under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
“This measure will create a safer online ecosystem and a better user experience, especially for children and families,” stated the MCMC.
Failure to obtain a license after the effective date will be considered an offense, and appropriate legal action can be taken under Act 588. Previously, these services were exempt from licensing requirements based on the Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) (Exemption) Order 2000.
However, the new regulatory framework only applies to services that meet the licensing eligibility criteria and does not involve its users.
What Is This All About :
1. What is Happening?
- The Malaysian government is introducing new rules to make the internet safer for children and families.
2. When are these Rules Starting?
- The new rules will be announced on 1 August 2024.
- These rules will be enforced starting from 1 January 2025.
3. Why are These Rules Being Introduced?
- To fight against increasing online crimes like scams, online fraud, bullying, and sexual crimes targeting children.
4. Who Needs to Follow These Rules?
- Any social media or messaging service that has at least 8 million users in Malaysia.
5. What Do These Companies Need to Do?
- They must apply for a special license from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
6. What Happens if They Don’t Follow the Rules?
- If these companies don’t get the license by 1 January 2025, they will be breaking the law, and the government can take legal action against them.
7. Who Does Not Need to Worry About This?
- These rules do not apply to the users (like you or me); it’s only for the companies that provide these services.
- Smaller services that don’t meet the user threshold might also be exempt.
8. Overall Goal:
- The aim is to create a safer internet space for everyone, especially children and families.
- TNS News