MCMC’s Licensing Requirement For Social Media Platforms Timely Move, Experts Say

KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has taken a timely step by mandating all social media and internet messaging services to apply for an Application Service Class Licence under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).

Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Media and Information Warfare Studies Centre security and political analyst Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin said the move is well-timed and essential for balancing the social media landscape, especially in relation to civil and criminal cases, as well as cybercrimes.

“It is also crucial to ensure control over emerging elements such as artificial intelligence (AI) and, more concerning, 'generative AI' that can produce misleading information or content used for malicious purposes,” he told Bernama.

He said while the move should be supported by all, ongoing improvements and the establishment of a committee comprising social media experts, information warfare specialists and the younger generation are necessary.

“This will help create a clearer and more forward-thinking framework to address threats while ensuring that no suppression of human rights occurs in the country, in line with the Federal Constitution and the Rukun Negara (National Principles).

“This is also important in establishing a national identity within social media to ensure that users adhere to the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara, using a governance framework that reflects the true national identity.” he said. 

MCMC had announced that all social media and internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for the Application Service Class Licence under Act 588.

This regulation will take effect on Jan 1, 2025, following the introduction of a new regulatory framework for these services starting Aug 1.

Meanwhile, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) cybersecurity expert Prof Madya M. Selvakumar said this measure is not new as similar practices are implemented in other countries, including Europe, India and Singapore.

As such, concerns about this measure restricting freedom of speech are unfounded, he said.

“With the introduction of this new measure, social media platform operators will have to comply with Malaysian requirements, ensuring that their content aligns with our cultural needs,” he added.

-- BERNAMA