No more DNS redirection, Fahmi assures after public backlash

The government has decided not to proceed with a plan requiring all internet service providers (ISPs) to implement public domain name service (DNS) redirection by the end of this month.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil also said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will continue to engage with stakeholders on cultivating a healthy online culture.

“There is no intention to proceed with the plan,” he said at a press conference in Putrajaya today.

Over the weekend, the minister directed the MCMC to halt its DNS redirection proposal, following feedback from public consultations.

However, he said the MCMC will continue engaging with stakeholders to gather input and suggestions aimed at ensuring a “safer internet” for all.

The commission previously clarified that the DNS redirection would target malicious websites, such as those involving pornography and online gambling, while legitimate sites would remain accessible.

Critics have said the move was an attempt to control public discourse by filtering out voices that challenge the government.

Protecting children

Fahmi further emphasised that the government’s priority was ensuring a safer internet for children.

Asked if Malaysia would follow Australia’s lead in introducing a minimum age for using social media of between 14 to 16 years old, the minister said the issue was discussed before.

“I’ve raised this issue with social media platforms multiple times. Their guidelines state that children under 13 aren’t allowed to create accounts,” Fahmi said.

However, he pointed out that weak enforcement by the platforms resulted in the widespread violation of the age restriction.

With upcoming licensing requirements, Fahmi expressed hope that social media platforms would take the implementation of age restrictions more seriously.

MCMC previously announced that social media platforms with more than eight million users in the country would need to apply for a licence, starting in 2025, as part of efforts to combat cybercrime.

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