MCMC Engages Civil Groups On Online Child Safety And Protection

KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) today held discussions with civil society organisations (CSOs) on online safety measures, including a proposed age verification system for users under 16.

In a statement, MCMC said the engagement session formed part of its open approach to gathering views from stakeholders on online child protection.

The session, attended by 12 representatives from 57 invited organisations, also discussed the use of age verification mechanisms and the development of a Child Protection Code.

“MCMC has taken note of the views raised and will examine in detail all matters highlighted, including data protection, technical implementation and implications for users.

“MCMC’s priority is to ensure a safer online environment, particularly for children and families, while strengthening consumer protection within the national digital ecosystem through an inclusive, practical and effective approach,” the statement read.

The commission said the initiative aimed to gather feedback and recommendations from various parties to strengthen a more comprehensive, balanced and effective regulatory framework.

The engagement session also featured presentations by Chief Children’s Commissioner of Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) Dr Farah Nini Dusuki, who is also a member of the Online Safety Committee, as well as Siti Kamsiah Hassan from the Sexual, Women and Child Investigation Division (D11) of the Royal Malaysia Police.

Also present were Online Safety Committee chairman Tan Sri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim and deputy chairman Datuk Lim Thean Shiang.

-- BERNAMA