SOCIAL media platforms and Internet messaging service providers will be banned if they refuse to apply for a Class Licence for Application Service Providers under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced.

Zahid stated this enforcement will begin on 1 January 2025, following the introduction of a new regulatory framework for social media and internet messaging services starting on 1 August this year.

“Closure is within the power of MCMC (Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission),” he told reporters after officiating the Bagan Datuk Umno division delegates meeting in Sungai Sumun, Bagan Datuk, Perak.

Zahid was responding to questions about the government’s actions towards social media and internet messaging service providers that defy the new MCMC directive.

MCMC announced yesterday that failing to obtain the licence after the effective date constitutes an offence, and legal action can be taken under Act 588. The new regulatory framework applies only to platforms that meet the licensing eligibility criteria and does not involve users.

This enforcement aligns with the Cabinet’s decision that social media and internet messaging services in the country must comply with Malaysian laws.

Zahid also dismissed claims that the move to ban social media and internet service providers was politically motivated to suppress negative comments against the government.

“What’s there to fear if the media is used to state the truth and reveal the true identity of account holders?

“Many countries do not use the same social media channels as us. For instance, China does not use the same media channels. They have their own methods.

“Singapore also requires media service providers to register. Many countries have such registration so that every netizen is accountable for what they write, instead of hiding behind anonymity. That’s cowardice,” he said. – July 28, 2024.