Government May Create Its Own Social Media Platform For Malaysians — Fahmi Fadzil
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said current social media platforms aren't exactly safe.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 05 Aug 2024, 12:28 PM
The Malaysian government is considering creating its own social media platform in a bid to increase the online safety of its residents
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said US-based tech giants who own social media platforms aren't doing enough to ensure the safety of Malaysians.
Speaking to reporters during the 'Himpunan Pembebasan Palestine' rally on 4 August, Fahmi said platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X, and more are profiting from Malaysians without providing adequate safety measures.
"Last year, it was estimated that Facebook alone earned US$600 million from Malaysia, but what have they done to ensure that the condition and use of their platform in Malaysia are safe?" he said, according to the New Straits Times.
"They lack commitment, so we need to study and assess the situation. It is not easy to develop our own social media platform, but some countries have attempted it. We will look into it," Fahmi added.
With the rise in online scams, fraud cases, cyberbullying, and adult content, especially paedophilia, the Malaysian government recently introduced a licensing requirement for social media and messaging platforms with over eight million users
The regulations, which take effect on 1 January 2025, will require social media and messaging platforms to register to continue their operations in Malaysia.
Previously, Fahmi said that the government has no intention to block or ban social media platforms, noting that these platforms have value.
However, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi warned that social media platforms that don't apply for licenses starting 1 August risk being banned.
Fahmi revealed that local celebrity host Datuk Aznil Nawawi contributed to the proposal for the Malaysian government's social media platform
Aznil's proposal followed Meta's removal of Palestine-related postings of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar had posted three messages on Instagram condemning Israel's recent assassination of Hamas Political Bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh. All three posts were removed and replaced with the caption, "Dangerous individuals and organisations".
Meta will meet with representatives from the Malaysian government this week to explain the situation.
