Communications Ministry will launch Safe Internet 2.0 and improve targeted information delivery, building on 2025 legal reforms and media council establishment.
PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Communications will prioritise strengthening internet security and enhancing government information delivery in 2026.
Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil (pic) said the Safe Internet 2.0 Campaign will be implemented nationwide to bolster online safety for all demographics.
“I would feel guilty if we succeed only in providing fast and affordable internet without ensuring it is safe,” he stated in an interview.
The campaign will raise awareness on digital safety, including protecting children from cyberbullying, fraud and platform misuse.
Consumer protection will also be strengthened via the MCMC PRIME system and National Address System development.
Fahmi said the government aims to build a stronger legal framework to protect people from digital threats.
He noted 2025 saw significant milestones, including amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
These amendments enable stricter action against network abuse like cyberbullying, online fraud, doxing and fake accounts.
Fahmi described the death of influencer A. Rajeswary (Esha) in 2024 as the saddest moment of his tenure.
“Unfortunately, it took the loss of a life for the system to change,” he said.
This tragedy catalysed the ‘Esha Clause’ in the Penal Code and the establishment of an anti-bullying tribunal.
The licensing of social media platforms, effective from 1 January 2025, was another major policy shift.
“We see that some platforms agree and comply, while others remain stubborn,” Fahmi acknowledged.
On government communication, he stressed the need to understand target audiences and their platforms.
Studies show Gen Z and Alpha get information from WhatsApp, TikTok and Facebook but trust TV and radio news.
“They rarely watch television, but when they do watch the news on TV, they believe it,” he explained.
Reflecting on 2025, Fahmi described it as busy due to Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship.
He said the country’s success in hosting events demonstrated its capabilities on the global stage.
A key achievement was the establishment of the Malaysian Media Council after over five decades.
The Dewan Rakyat passed the Malaysian Media Council Bill 2024 on 26 February, with it gazetted as an Act on 13 June.
The ministry has also released a Three-Year Achievement Book summarising its integrated efforts.
Its five key thrusts are infrastructure security, content enhancement, creative industry empowerment, nationhood and media literacy.
Fahmi highlighted the expansion of internet and 5G coverage under the National Digital Connectivity Plan (JENDELA).
Initiatives like the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) expanded digital access for rural communities.
He said programmes like the Rahmah Basic Contribution (SARA) have had a significant, tangible impact on daily lives. – Bernama
