Government to present new ‘Kill Switch’ digital security legislation in October

KUALA LUMPUR: A new piece of legislation aimed at enhancing digital security, including detailed and clear provisions regarding the implementation and enforcement of a ‘kill switch,’ will be introduced in Parliament this October.

According to Bernama, Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), stated that the new law will place responsibilities on social media service providers and internet messaging service providers.

This is to ensure they play a role in addressing online crimes such as fraud, cyberbullying, the distribution of child sexual abuse material, as well as harassment and sexual exploitation.

Additionally, she mentioned that the International Conference on Online Threats 2024 will be hosted by the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department on September 5 and 6, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The conference is part of preparations for the licensing of social media services, which will take effect on January 1 next year, following the introduction of a new regulatory framework for social media and internet messaging services on August 1.

Azalina noted that the conference will feature leading international experts and advocates for social media accountability and governance, such as Frances Haugen and Dr. Taylor Owen, who will discuss issues related to online threats, including child safety, cybercrime, and social media regulation, particularly in light of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence technology.

She also mentioned that the government is reviewing proposals to amend the Penal Code to classify and define cyberbullying offenses and considering amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code to ensure these criminal provisions are effectively enforced.

Azalina added that Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), in collaboration with BHEUU and MCMC, will conduct a social study on online safety through a public opinion survey.

This study will support the government’s efforts in drafting the legislation, ensuring it is comprehensive, relevant, and adequately protects all segments of society.