COMMUNICATIONS and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil said he would summon several social media platform representatives for talks on inappropriate advertisements on their services.

Fahmi said discussions would be centred on clarifications about inappropriate and offensive advertisements, such as those with sexual content, which should not be displayed in the country.

“Typically, advertisements presented to us are based on what the algorithm thinks we like to watch. For example, if we enjoy watching cars, then more car-related ads are presented to us, so I understand this issue.

“Different social media platforms have their own algorithms, and the issue of algorithms can be quite problematic and as it can result in a kind of tunnel syndrome or echo chamber.”

Fahmi said this in response to Senator Hussin Ismail’s query about the government’s efforts in restricting inappropriate advertisements on social media.

Fahmi also said between October 1 and November 15, 147 posts containing hate speech about the Israel-Palestine conflict were removed in collaboration with social media platform providers.

“To address and curb radical and extremist content, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has sought cooperation from international social media platform providers.

“This is to ensure content with elements of hatred related to the Israel-Palestine conflict can be better addressed,” he said in reply to Senator Noorita Sual who asked about the government’s steps to prevent extremist content, especially regarding the Gaza conflict, on social media. – Bernama, November 30, 2023.