PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is considering adopting a digital platform regulatory framework similar to what has been implemented in Australia and Canada, according to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
In a statement released today, MCMC said that the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD) and MCMC have held discussions with major online platforms such as Meta and Google to establish a licensing and regulatory framework.
Following the approval of the Mandatory News Media Bargaining Code by Australia, which was the first of its kind globally, Google and Meta voluntarily entered into compensation agreements with news channels as an example of fair compensation.
Similarly, Canada’s Bill C-11 aims to regulate streaming platforms and encourage support for Canadian-related content, it said.
“By emulating both Australia and Canada, the involvement of KKD and MCMC with online platforms demonstrates an unwavering commitment to addressing challenges in the digital market.
“One of the challenges faced is the imbalance in Advertising Expenditure (ADEX) between digital platforms and local media to ensure fair compensation for news content creators,” it said.
The statement was issued following the discussion between KKD and MCMC with Meta and Google to address challenges in online media in Cyberjaya yesterday, which was chaired jointly by KKD secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa and MCMC chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh.
Acknowledging the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), MCMC said KKD and the Commission aim to implement fair and smart regulations and practices.
“This includes plans to promote fair competition, strengthen intellectual property rights, protect users from harmful online content and safeguard user privacy,” it said
KKD and MCMC are committed to fostering an environment in which digital platforms operate fairly and responsibly for the public interest, particularly as Malaysia embarks on its digital journey.
Regarding yesterday’s discussions, MCMC said that some of the challenges faced by online platforms include the spread of harmful content related to child sexual abuse, online gambling and content that touches on race, religion and royalty (3R).
Other challenges include fraud and data phishing, the sale and promotion of illegal substances such as drugs, impersonation, and the dissemination of fake information and news.
TikTok is also scheduled to meet with MCMC to discuss similar challenges in online media, it said. – BERNAMA
