Social media and messaging platforms that want to operate in Malaysia need to apply for a license from the government starting next August 1. In a statement provided by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, the licensing measures are taken as part of a regulatory framework to ensure a safer online ecosystem.
Only platforms with at least 8 million users need to have an operating license. The application period opened on 1 August and it will only be enforced from 1 January 2025. Failure to apply for a license will result in legal action being taken under the Communications and Multimedia Act
Among the things tried to prevent through this licensing are online fraud, cyber bullying, scams and sexual crimes against children. This week the Minister of Communications, Fahmi Fadzil said that not all social media platforms in Malaysia comply with the laws of the country. Instagram at the highest compliance level of 88% followed by Facebook (85%), WhatsApp (79%), TikTok (76%), and Telegram (65%). X/Twitter is at the lowest level of compliance with only 25%.