KUALA LUMPUR – The introduction of social media operating licenses, effective today, is expected to strengthen enforcement efforts in addressing cybercrimes, according to Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) president Siraj Jalil.
Siraj explained that many cybercrime investigations often stall when authorities are unable to identify the account owners involved.
“This licensing requirement serves as oversight for those who have been victims of cybercrimes, thereby contributing to user comfort and peace of mind as the enforcement process becomes more straightforward.
“Social media oversight indirectly ensures better justice is served for any victims of cybercrimes,” he said during an appearance on Bernama TV’s Malaysia Petang Ini programme.
Licensing to benefit parents of young social media users
Siraj also noted that parents of children active on social media would likely benefit the most from the new regulations.
“It indirectly provides peace of mind to users, especially parents, but they need to be aware that the safety and security of their children’s social media usage are their primary responsibility,” he said.
Compliance among major platforms
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) recently announced that several major internet messaging and social media service providers had taken steps to comply with the new licensing requirements.
According to the MCMC, Meta and Telegram have initiated the licensing process, with Telegram nearing approval.
Tencent, the Chinese tech giant that owns WeChat, was the first to secure an Applications Service Provider Class (ASP(C)) licence, ensuring its messaging, social media, and payment services comply with Malaysia’s licensing framework.
ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has also successfully obtained a licence, while Meta, which operates WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, is expected to complete its application soon.
Challenges with X and Google
However, not all platforms have met the requirements. The MCMC noted that X (formerly Twitter) has not applied for a licence as its Malaysian user base does not meet the minimum threshold of eight million users. Discussions with the platform are ongoing to determine its compliance status.
Google, which operates YouTube, faces classification challenges under the current licensing framework.
“MCMC has deliberated on the issues raised and shall ensure YouTube, as well as all relevant platform providers meeting the licensing criteria, are bound by their duties and responsibilities under the Licensing Framework, which is now in force,” the commission said in a statement.
The MCMC has warned that providers failing to comply with the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) may face investigations and regulatory actions.
“The commission will assess the status of platform providers that have yet to obtain the required licences and consider the appropriate actions under the Act,” it added.
A step towards safer online environments
The licensing initiative, introduced under Act 588, aims to improve user safety, protect consumers, and enhance regulatory oversight of social media and messaging services.
The policy was first announced on July 27 last year, requiring all platforms with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia to secure a licence. – January 1, 2025