Malaysian MPs support a new rule to automatically license major social media platforms, aiming to improve online safety and protect children from harm.
KUALA LUMPUR: A new rule to automatically license major social media and messaging platforms is a necessary step to improve online safety, say government backbenchers.
The Deeming Provision under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 will deem providers with eight million or more users in Malaysia as registered license holders from January 1, 2026.
Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan said the move closes a long-existing regulatory gap and demands accountability from influential digital platforms.
“Social media holds very significant influence in Malaysia,” he said in a statement.
He noted these companies have millions of local users, shape public discourse, and generate revenue from the Malaysian market, yet their legal responsibility for user safety remains unsatisfactory.
The primary goal is to guarantee legal protection concerning cyber fraud, child exploitation, harmful content, and fake news.
Syahredzan said the provision also aims to ensure more effective collaboration between authorities and the platforms.
He stressed the measure aligns with government plans to limit social media access for children under 16.
“It is an effort to ensure large digital industry players shoulder responsibilities commensurate with their influence,” he added.
He urged the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to implement the rule carefully through continued stakeholder engagement and transparent, prudent regulation.
Bentong MP Young Syefura Othman also supported the provision, calling it a progressive step for platform accountability.
“I fully support the implementation of the Deeming Provision,” she said in a Facebook post.
She said it will help the government regulate platforms to comply with the upcoming ban on social media accounts for children under 16.
According to MCMC, the rule will apply to major platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. – Bernama
