FOUR major Internet messaging and social media service providers have taken significant steps towards regulatory compliance by applying for licence to operate in Malaysia.
Tencent (WeChat) has been granted the Applications Service Provider Class or ASP(C) licence which makes it the first service provider to be licensed under the licensing requirements for Internet messaging service and social media service providers.
“Following WeChat, ByteDance (TikTok) successfully obtained their licence,” revealed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in a media statement.
“Telegram, meanwhile, is in the final stages of the licensing process and is expected to secure its licence soon.
“Meta which oversees Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp has initiated the process of obtaining their licences to operate their platforms in the country which is also expected to be completed soon.”
However, both X (previously Twitter) and Google which operates YouTube have yet to submit their applications to MCMC.
“According to X, its user base in Malaysia has not reached the required threshold of eight (8) million users. Currently, MCMC is actively reviewing the validity of the user base as stated by X and will continue engagement sessions to assess X’s position,” the communications and multimedia regulator pointed out.
As for Google, there were issues raised on the video sharing features of YouTube and its classification under the licensing framework.”
MCMC said it has deliberated on the issues raised and shall ensure that YouTube as well as all relevant platform providers meeting the licensing criteria are bound by their duties and responsibilities to adhere to the licensing framework which is now in force.
Additionally, MCMC will assess the status of platform providers that have yet to obtain the required licences and consider the appropriate actions under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
“Platform providers found to be in violation of licensing requirements may be subject to investigation and regulatory actions,” it stressed.
“The licensing requirements underscore the government’s commitment to strengthening online safety, enhancing user protection – particularly for children and vulnerable groups – while improving regulatory oversight for service providers operating in Malaysia.”
Added the regulator: “MCMC applauds the efforts of service providers who have taken proactive steps toward compliance and emphasises the importance of adhering to the licensing requirements. These efforts are pivotal in creating a safe and secure online environment for all Malaysians.” – Jan 1, 2025
