MCMC reportedly removes 5X more cyberbullying-related content in 2024 than 2023

The Malaysia Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has reportedly taken down 8,756 cyberbullying-related content in 2024.

According to Bernama, deputy communications minister Teo Nie Ching said the figure indicates a significant jump compared to 2023, which saw the removal of 1,763 cyberbullying-related content. She reportedly urged those online to exercise greater caution when using digital platforms and practice ethical forms of communication with fellow users. 

During a speech at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bukit Rok in Bera today, Teo also noted the dire impact cyberbullying has on victims and noted the responsibility of online users to promote a safe and more positive digital environment. 

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In addition, she stated that students at the school have been introduced to the Klik Dengan Bijak advocacy programme to promote ethical and positive online behaviours amongst users through activities and games. MCMC has reportedly engaged over 17,000 participants in Pahang last year through 46 Klik Dengan Bijak programmes. 

Teo reportedly shared her optimism about the programme and its aim to train Malaysians to be responsible and ethical telecommunication users through accurate information. 

With regards to the development of telecommunication infrastructure in Orang Asli areas within the Bera constituency, Teo shared that five new towers are now completed and fully operational in Kampung Bukit Rok, Kampung Bukit Gemuruh, and Kampung Sungai Tuang. She added that two additional towers are currently under construction in Kampung Gaquyah and Kampung Kuin Lenguit as part of the National Digital Network Plan.

Teo reportedly requested MCMC to collaborate with relevant government agencies for future project planning to identify new Orang Asli settlements and villages facing telecommunication access issue, noting the ministry's efforts to ensure quality services nationwide. 

A+M has reached out to MCMC for more information. 

In December last year, MCMC reportedly removed 1,225 items of AI-generated explicit content as of 1 December 2024, compared to 186 in 2022.

Teo reportedly said that the MCMC has removed 800 items of child sexual exploitation content, 766 more than in 2022.

In light of the increase in alarming content, MCMC proposed an amendment to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), where anyone found to be distributing explicit content for commercial purposes could face up to five years in jail, a fine of up to RM1 million, or both, according to Bernama.

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