The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has urged Facebook to remove 249,268 harmful content this year, with an overwhelming 91.6 percent tied to online gambling and scams. Of this total, 172,072 posts promoted illegal gambling, while 56,136 were linked to various scams. Although the MCMC lacks the authority to mandate content removal, it can request that platforms act. However, the decision ultimately rests with the platform.
Under Malaysia’s legal framework, the Betting Act of 1953 outlaws most gambling activities unless explicitly authorized by the government. The Act underwent its latest revision in 2006.
Scams cost Malaysians over €92 million in 2023
According to local reports, Malaysians faced financial losses due to scams and illegal gambling, amounting to RM432 million (€92 million) in 2023. This alarming figure underscores the need for more stringent measures to tackle fraudulent online activities. Meanwhile, Facebook reportedly generated RM2.5 billion (€533 million) in advertising revenue from Malaysia, with a considerable portion allegedly tied to ads promoting online investment scams.
Enhancing public reporting and verification
Addressing concerns about government censorship, Malaysia Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasised that any individual could file complaints with the MCMC. The agency reviews these reports and forwards valid concerns to the relevant platforms for action. To further combat misinformation, Fahmi announced plans to launch a WhatsApp chatbot in January. The service will enable users to verify questionable messages through artificial intelligence (AI), helping curb the spread of fake news.
Minister advocates AI solutions for online crimes
Speaking at the International Search Conference earlier this month, Fahmi called for proactive use of artificial intelligence to counter online crimes. He highlighted AI’s potential in addressing issues like scams, illegal gambling, cyberbullying, and child exploitation. Fahmi criticised platforms like Facebook for their reactive approach, which often delays content removal until formal complaints are lodged.
Fahmi reiterated the government’s push for licensing social media platforms to ensure greater accountability in managing harmful content. He cited Meta’s slow response to removing flagged posts as a key reason for advocating this policy. The minister stressed that a more collaborative effort between platforms and governments is essential to protect users from online threats.
With billions of dollars in revenue generated from Malaysia, the responsibility for ensuring a safe digital space lies not only with regulators but also with platforms that profit from local users. The Malaysian government continues to emphasise the importance of proactive measures to safeguard its citizens from online harm.
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