Malaysia Requires Social Media And Internet Message Companies With 8 Million New License List Users

Illustration of social media with users of more than eight million (photo: dock. pexels)

JAKARTA - Malaysia will require social media service companies and internet messages that have at least eight million registered users in the country to apply for App Service Provision Class Licenses. Malaysia's Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that this new regulation will be introduced to the public on August 1, 2024 and take effect on January 1, 2025.

This regulation, which is based on the 1998 Law on Communication and Multimedia (UU 588), is designed to ensure that social media services and internet messages comply with Malaysian law.

This step was taken in response to the increasing number of cybercrime cases, including online fraud, cyberbullying, and sexual crimes against children.

The MCMC confirms that failure to obtain a license after an effective date will be considered a violation, and appropriate legal action can be taken under Law 588.

Previously, social media service platforms and internet messages with eight million users were exempted from licensing requirements based on the 2000 Communication and Multimedia Order (Lisensi Pembebasan) in Malaysia.

This new regulation only applies to platforms that meet licensing requirements and do not involve service users. MCMC hopes this step will create a safer online ecosystem and improve the experience for users, especially children and families.