The Malaysian government has identified eight social media and messaging platforms that will need to obtain licenses under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 by January 1. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that the platforms are WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Telegram, WeChat, and TikTok. These platforms have met the criteria of having at least 8 million users in Malaysia.
Fahmi stressed that the license requirement is not intended to restrict freedom of expression or hinder innovation, but to ensure internet safety in Malaysia, especially for minors.
He also stated that several platforms have voiced their concerns about innovation and the challenges of setting up local offices, but he is confident that these platforms will comply with local laws given the profits they make from the Malaysian market.