KUALA LUMPUR, December 21 – The Malaysian government has announced that eight major social media and messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Telegram, X, and WeChat, will be required to obtain licences under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 by next year.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the move, citing the platforms’ large user base of over eight million in Malaysia as meeting the threshold for licensing. Fahmi clarified that the decision is aimed at ensuring compliance with local laws and protecting users, particularly against scams and harmful content.
Using Meta as an example, he noted the company’s RM2.5 billion annual advertising revenue from Malaysia and highlighted RM400 million in losses linked to scams on its platform. While acknowledging concerns about potential impacts on innovation, Fahmi assured positive engagement with platforms like Telegram and Google, emphasising the need to create a safer online environment for children and families.
