On 27 July 2024, it was reported that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (“MCMC”) has issued a statement announcing that, commencing 1 August 2024, all social media and internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for an Applications Service Provider Class licence. A failure to obtain a licence will be an offence and enforcement of this new licensing requirement will take effect from 1 January 2025.¹ According to the MCMC, these services were exempted from licensing requirements pursuant to the Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) (Exemption) Order 2000.
 
The MCMC said that the introduction of the licensing obligation is part of a new regulatory framework to create a safer internet for children and families and is aimed at combating cybercrime such as scams, online fraud, cyberbullying and sexual crimes against children. The MCMC added that the introduction of the requirement is in line with the Cabinet’s decision that social media and internet messaging services must comply with Malaysian laws.
 
Social media and internet messaging platforms should take note of this new requirement and take measures to apply for and obtain a licence before 1 January 2025 if the number of their registered users in Malaysia meets the minimum threshold.
 
For further information please contact Charmayne Ong (Partner), Natalie Lim (Partner) and Jillian Chia (Partner) of the Technology, Media and Telecommunications Practice of Skrine.

 

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