MCMC Halts Implementation Of DNS Redirection Following Public Uproar
In a tweet on X, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the government is pausing the implementation of DNS Redirection.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 09 Sep 2024, 11:20 AM
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has halted its planned implementation of Domain Name System (DNS) Redirection on local Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
A DNS is like the phone book of the Internet. It translates website names you type into your browser into IP addresses, which are used by computers to find each other on the Internet.
So, when you enter a website's name, DNS helps your computer locate and connect to that site by its IP address.
Previously, it was reported that the MCMC had been restricting access to harmful websites, even for those using alternative DNS services such as Google Public DNS or Cloudflare.
In a tweet on X, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the government is pausing the implementation of DNS Redirection
The decision comes following extensive public feedback and consultations with various stakeholders.
Despite this pause, Fahmi emphasised the government’s commitment to combating online crime and ensuring the safety of Malaysians, particularly children and families.
"Online crime issues including access to gambling websites, prostitution, pornography and the like are of great concern and require a comprehensive solution," Fahmi explained.
"The government will not compromise on this, to ensure online safety for Malaysians, especially children and families," he said, adding that MCMC will continue to engage with all stakeholders to obtain views, suggestions and recommendations to ensure that the objective of a safer Internet can be achieved together.
Originally slated for full implementation by 30 September, the DNS Redirection initiative was first detected in early August
Reports claim that the directive may have been issued as early as February. MCMC, however, confirmed the rollout on August 8, noting that the process was being phased in gradually.
The regulator introduced DNS Redirection as a measure to shield Malaysians from online threats such as scams, gambling, and pornography.
However, the move faced criticism from the public, with some accusing the government of practising censorship. Reports surfaced earlier this week of widespread Internet service issues, affecting gaming consoles, VPN apps, and even legitimate sites like ArtStation.
