The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has initiated a public consultation on the draft Code of Conduct (COC) (Best Practices) for internet messaging and social media service providers from today until Nov 5.

In a statement, MCMC said that the consultation aims to gather input and feedback from service providers, the public, industry players, and relevant stakeholders, following the government’s introduction of social media and internet messaging services licensing, which was gazetted on Aug 1 and will come into effect on Jan 1 next year.

The MCMC strongly encourages participation from service providers, the public, and all interested stakeholders, as the consultation offers an opportunity for all parties to contribute to policies that will shape the future of the online environment in Malaysia.

“This is also to ensure that the online space remains safe, secure, and conducive for growth and innovation,” the statement added.

According to MCMC, the draft code of conduct aims to create a safe online environment for Malaysians, particularly for children and vulnerable groups who are at high risk of exposure to harmful content.

The draft outlines best practices to be adopted by service providers licensed under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

- Bernama