PUTRAJAYA: As of now, neither Google nor X has applied for the new class licenses under Malaysia’s revised regulatory framework, which took effect on January 1.
These new licensing requirements, introduced last July, are designed to safeguard the public from potential online hazards. Social media platforms and messaging services with over eight million registered users in Malaysia are required to comply with the updated regulations.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) revealed that Google, which owns YouTube, had raised concerns over how its video-sharing platform is classified under the new rules. The commission has acknowledged these concerns and assured that it will work to ensure YouTube, along with other platforms that meet the criteria, fulfills its obligations.
On the other hand, X informed MCMC that its Malaysian user base has not yet reached the eight million threshold. The commission is currently reviewing this claim and will continue discussions with X to confirm the platform’s status.
Other prominent platforms are moving ahead with their license applications. Tencent’s WeChat was the first to secure the Application Service Provider Class license, closely followed by ByteDance’s TikTok. Telegram is reportedly nearing the final stages of its licensing process, while Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has already initiated its application and is expected to finalize it soon.
MCMC has emphasized that it will continue to monitor platforms that have not yet obtained their licenses, warning that non-compliance could result in penalties under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. These penalties could include fines of up to RM500,000 (US$111,600), up to five years in prison, or a daily fine of RM1,000 for each day the platform remains non-compliant.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil reassured the public that Malaysia does not intend to block or ban social media platforms, acknowledging their significant role in the country’s digital economy.
The introduction of these new regulations comes after the tragic death of social media influencer Rajeswary Appahu, known as Esha, who was found dead after reporting harassment during a TikTok live session. This tragedy prompted the government to reassess its approach to online platforms, particularly regarding issues like cyberbullying.
According to World Population Review, WeChat boasts 12 million users in Malaysia, while data from Kepios reveals that YouTube has 24.1 million users, TikTok has 28.68 million users aged 18 and older, Facebook has 22.35 million users, and X has 5.71 million users in Malaysia as of early 2024.
Subscribe to us:
