Malaysia Introduces Code of Conduct for Social Media, Messaging Services
The Code of Conduct was developed to support the regulatory framework for Internet messaging and social media service providers.
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The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has recently published the Code of Conduct (Best Practice) for internet messaging service providers and social media service providers. This is done with the aim that service providers uphold online safety and security, particularly for children and vulnerable groups.
The Code of Conduct was developed to support the regulatory framework for Internet messaging and social media service providers, which sets out best practices for adoption by service providers in addressing harmful content online, as well as other relevant conduct requirements.
MCMC has expressed gratitude for the feedback received during the public consultation on the Code of Conduct (Best Practice). It has also highlighted that public input played a crucial role in shaping the code to address evolving challenges in the online space while fostering a safer and more secure digital environment for all Malaysians.
To support its implementation, MCMC will offer guidance to ensure the code’s effectiveness in promoting online safety and security. It also plans to periodically review the code to ensure it stays relevant and capable of addressing new and emerging challenges in the digital landscape.
Some of the best practices included in the code are enforcing these companies to have a moderation team based in Malaysia, enhanced accessibility of sites and services for other demographics, and overall safety for children using these services online.
The release of the code is in line with the country’s imposition of social media and messaging services needing to apply for a license to operate in the country. So far, Telegram and Tencent (WeChat) have started the process of obtaining the required license to operate their platforms in Malaysia.
