Tech giants Meta and Google have engaged in discussions with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to tackle challenges presented by online media, MCMC announced in a statement today.
Ministry of Communications and Digital secretary general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa and MCMC chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din jointly chaired these discussions.
Furthermore, MCMC revealed that a meeting with TikTok has been scheduled to address similar issues.
The challenges encompass various concerns such as the dissemination of harmful online content related to child sexual abuse material, online gambling, content that incites race, royalty, and religious discontent (3R), scams, phishing, illegal drug sales and promotions, impersonation, the propagation of disinformation, and fake news.
In addition, Malaysia is considering the adoption of regulatory frameworks akin to those in place in Australia and Canada. The Communications and Digital Ministry (KKD), in collaboration with MCMC, is actively engaging with major online platforms, including Meta and Google, to establish a licensing and regulatory framework.
MCMC pointed out that Australia’s recent enactment of the world’s first Mandatory News Media Bargaining Code has prompted voluntary compensation agreements between Google, Meta, and news outlets. This serves as a precedent highlighting the significance of fair compensation.
Similarly, Canada’s Bill C-11 aims to regulate streaming platforms and mandates support for Canadian content, demonstrating the evolving global landscape of online media regulation.
Furthermore, both MCMC and KKD recognise the significance of artificial intelligence (AI) and are committed to establishing regulations governing its utilisation.
These regulations encompass initiatives aimed at promoting fair competition, bolstering intellectual property rights, safeguarding consumers against online threats, and protecting privacy.
MCMC emphasised that as Malaysia navigates the digital era, both organisations are dedicated to cultivating an ecosystem where digital platforms operate equitably, responsibly, and in alignment with the public’s best interests.
