Regulations for social media and internet to be introduced, says Anwar
KUALA LUMPUR: New regulations governing social media and internet messaging services will be introduced by the government to address the spread of crime and dangerous information, creating a safer online environment for all users.
According to Bernama, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that the government acknowledges that some restrictions or regulations might be unpopular but are necessary for the well-being of society.
“The advancements in technology require all parties, especially online users, to maintain high standards of order without causing sensitivities that could undermine safety and tranquility while using any social media platforms,” he said in a Facebook post today.
Anwar mentioned this topic in his speech at the MADANI Feast event in Taman Koperasi Perpaduan 2, Tambun, Perak.
Before returning, the Prime Minister also engaged with the local community and visited Masjid Ar-Rashid, which will soon be completed and operational.
Last Sunday, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said announced that new legislation to enhance digital security, including provisions for the operation and enforcement of a kill switch, will be presented in Parliament this October.
She said the law will place responsibilities on social media and internet messaging service providers to help combat online crimes such as fraud, cyberbullying, child sexual abuse material, and sexual harassment.
The day before, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that social media and internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for an Application Service Class License under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
According to MCMC, this measure will be enforced starting January 1, following the introduction of a new regulatory framework for social media and internet messaging services on August 1.
Anwar also visited the site of a fire in Kampung Manjoi, Tambun.
“In addition to listening to explanations from the fire department, I also met with the fire victims and provided contributions to alleviate their burden from this disaster. I pray for their continued strength and patience as they face this trial,” he said.
In a Facebook post yesterday, the Prime Minister mentioned that he had provided immediate financial assistance of RM5,000 to each family affected by the fire that destroyed eight houses in the village.
Anwar, who is also the Member of Parliament for Tambun, said the donations were made through his Political Secretary, Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim.
According to several Facebook posts, the fire, which occurred around 5:40 p.m. yesterday, destroyed eight houses, six of which were occupied. No casualties have been reported.