Content Forum Calls For Self-Regulation In Tackling Online Harms
The organisation emphasised the importance of self-regulation alongside legal measures to tackle online harms in Malaysia's digital landscape.
By Sadho Ram — 03 Sep 2024, 05:58 PM
As Malaysia's digital landscape continues to evolve with the rise of user-generated content and social media, the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) is urging a balanced approach to content regulation
The Content Forum, a leader in self-regulation within the media industry, believes that while self-regulation is crucial for managing online harms, it should not replace legal frameworks.
"The content ecosystem has transformed dramatically in recent years, driven by the rise of social media and the surge of user-generated content.
"This influx of largely unregulated content has introduced significant online harms, ranging from misinformation to online harassment, which cannot be ignored," Content Forum said in a statement yesterday, 2 September.
The call for self-regulation comes as online service providers (OSPs) face more scrutiny
Content Forum said OSPs should take part in developing content standards that address harmful content. However, they emphasised that this should complement, not replace, legal oversight.
Rafiq Razali, Group Managing Director of Media Prima Berhad and Chairman of the Content Forum, invited stakeholders to collaborate.
"With OSPs now under licensing oversight, we remain dedicated to facilitating the development of content standards that effectively address harmful content and online harms," he said.
The Content Forum's self-regulatory model, established under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA98), brings together various industry players, including broadcasters, advertisers, civic groups, and content creators.
Rafiq Razali, Group Managing Director of Media Prima Berhad and Chairman of the Content Forum.
Image via Content Forum (Provided to SAYS)The Content Forum has made strides in setting and enforcing content standards on sensitive issues, such as hate speech and the portrayal of marginalised groups
Industry leaders have expressed their support for the self-regulation model.
"It helps us efficiently stay current with regulations, so we can focus on delivering quality content. But beyond that, it gives us a say in shaping policies, ensuring that the standards are practical, balanced, and forward-looking," said Astro CEO Euan Daryl Smith.
Advertisers also see the benefits of self-regulation.
Claudian Navin Stanislaus, President of the Malaysian Advertisers Association and Vice Chairman of the Content Forum, pointed out that the Content Code is a key tool in addressing content violations and mediating disputes.
He argued that self-regulation allows for quicker and more effective responses to changes in the media landscape without imposing restrictive measures on consumers.
However, the success of self-regulation depends on the active participation of all stakeholders
Content Forum CEO Mediha Mahmood said these collaborations are critical for aligning with national laws and tackling harmful content.
The forum's call for collaboration underscores the challenges ahead as Malaysia navigates the tension between creative freedom and the need for regulatory oversight in the digital age.
