Malaysia considers eKYC verification for social media platforms under Online Safety Act, Communications Act and Personal Data Protection Act to protect users.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is studying the proposed use of electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) identity verification for social media applications under three key laws.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the laws include the Online Safety Act 2025, the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Personal Data Protection Act 2010.
“We have our legal framework and authority, and we respect due process,” Fahmi said during his winding-up speech on the 2026 Supply Bill for his ministry in the Dewan Rakyat.
He has instructed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to examine the matter in detail.
Fahmi emphasised the need to balance internet accessibility improvements with online safety measures.
“While we continue working to improve 5G access and deliver fast, affordable internet, we must also save lives, protect property, and ensure a safer online environment, especially for children and families,” he said.
The eKYC proposal aims to make social media platforms verify users’ ages and identities to protect children under 13 and combat online fraud.
From January 2022 to October 15 this year, MCMC submitted 1,521 requests to remove offensive or extreme content involving children.
Platforms successfully removed 96% of this content in accordance with community guidelines and local laws.
During the same period, MCMC requested removal of 2,881 pornographic content items, with 88% or 2,535 items taken down.
Platform providers also blocked 4,070 pornographic websites upon MCMC’s requests.
Regarding local film incentives, Fahmi said he would ask the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia to study offering rewards for internationally successful films.
Malaysia will leverage its diplomatic influence after chairing ASEAN 2025 to promote local films across the region.
“With ASEAN 2025 concluded, and the diplomatic networks we’ve built through that process, I believe there are many opportunities we can follow up on,” Fahmi added.
He intends to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN counterparts to advance regional collaboration. – Bernama
