MY govt to 'fast-track' online safety campaign implementation

Malaysia's Communications Ministry is reportedly mulling launching a series of "Train the trainees" sessions for the "Online safety campaign" ahead of Aidilfitri (festival of breaking fast) in March. Minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly said at an assembly yesterday (12 February) that the initiative aims to "fast-track" the campaign implementation and stop the spread of fake news. 

According to Bernama, the ministry's target is to engage with 10,000 schools all public universities through this campaign. Fahmi also noted that the measure is critical to ensure a safer internet environment for all users. 

Additionally, Fahmi reportedly said the initiative follows His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar's comments in a parliament session earlier this month, where he urged the government to act on slander and online instigation, which may lead to division. 

Don't miss: Scammers prefer Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok and Telegram, says Fahmi

Earlier this week, the ministry unveiled its "Online safety campaign" roadshow to raise awareness about internet safety in society. The campaign reportedly focuses on banning children under the age of 13 from having social media accounts and making sure the use of the internet stays under adult supervision. 

Moreover, the campaign aims to educate the public on steering clear of online scams, cyberbullying, online gambling and pedophilia-related crimes, while promoting responsible use of the internet. 

During his speech, Fahmi reportedly said the ministry remains committed to grant ideal internet access for all Malaysian, without the need to compromise safety. He also noted that the amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 are one of the efforts to strengthen online security amidst threats. 

A+M has reached out to Communications Ministry for a statement.

In December last year, the Communications and Multimedia (Amendments) Bill 2024 (CMA) was passed in the Dewan Rakyat through a bloc vote. 59 MPs voted in favour of the bill, 40 were against and one abstained. 122 MPs were absent during the vote. 

According to Free Malaysia Today, Fahmi said the amendments to the bill balanced freedom of speech by creating restrictions for security, public order and morality. He added the amendments aim to find the harmony between freedom of expression and the benefits of the digital economy, while ensuring safety and security. 

The amendments also reportedly introduce firmer penalties for offences such as child exploitation and commercial distribution of pornography. Fahmi reportedly explained that the new law would govern the media, mostly involving telecommunications companies. 

Malaysia has seen a surge in online slander in recent times. Earlier this year, the Malaysia Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) reported that it took down 8,756 cyberbullying-related content in 2024.

According to Bernama, deputy communications minister Teo Nie Ching said the figure indicated 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, 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. 

In addition, MCMC also removed a total of 63,652 pieces of fraudulent online content on social media in 2024. This is up from 6,297 pieces removed in 2023, Teo reportedly said. 

Related articles:   
MY will not be implementing social media limit law, says Fahmi  
MCMC introduces guidelines for communications industry to strengthen cybersecurity  
Age limits on social media must be enforced strictly, says Fahmi Fadzil