COMMUNICATIONS Minister Fahmi Fadzil clarified that social media platforms failing to obtain the necessary licenses by Jan 1, 2025, could face significant penalties.

Under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA), service providers found in violation may be subject to fines up to RM500,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

Moreover, ongoing violations could result in daily fines of RM1,000.

Fahmi noted that action would be taken under Section 126 of the CMA, which allows for these measures against unlicensed platforms.

“For now, we have determined that action can be taken under Section 126 CMA. If found guilty, the service provider can be fined not more than RM500,000 or five years’ jail or both.

“And they can be fined RM1,000 for every day, or part of the day, as long as the offence continues,” he told a press conference at his ministry.

Moreover, the new regulatory framework for social media and internet messaging service providers is set to begin today with providers given until Dec 31 to register. The regulations will be fully enforced starting Jan 1 next year.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi previously announced that unlicensed social media platforms and internet messaging services would be shut down on Jan 1, 2025.

In response, Fahmi pointed out that engagement sessions with MPs and NGOs have been conducted to ensure public understanding of the new regulations.

“The sessions will continue to ensure that Malaysians understand the government’s move, particularly since it is constitutional,” he stated.

“We want a better atmosphere, especially in ensuring that the internet is safer for our children and families.”

However, not all invited parties attended; out of 79 invited organisations, only 27 including the Centre for Independent Journalism, the Bar Council, Article 19, Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram), UNICEF, National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJ), Justice for Sisters and Legal Dignity were present.

Political party MUDA and Gerakan Media Merdeka (Geramm) did not attend.

The government’s initiative seeks to address online scams, cyberbullying, and sex crimes against children. Fahmi revealed that Malaysians have lost over RM500 mil through online scams on Facebook alone, according to a briefing by the Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department.

Despite the new regulations, Fahmi assured that the measures will not infringe upon constitutionally guaranteed freedom of speech. - Aug 1, 2024

https://focusmalaysia.my/fahmi-unlicensed-socmed-platforms-risk-heavy-fines-imprisonment/