Cybersecurity professionals are applauding the recent initiative to register all Internet messaging and social media platforms with a user base exceeding eight million in Malaysia, as it promotes greater accountability and enhances digital regulation.
Prof. Dr. Selvakumar Manickam, the director of the Cybersecurity Research Centre at Universiti Sains Malaysia, described this approach as “a remarkable regulatory strategy.” He emphasized that instead of waiting for large technology companies to navigate the complexities of bureaucracy at their own pace, Malaysia has implemented an efficient system that automatically registers these providers upon entry.
“This initiative guarantees that industry players are promptly subject to Malaysian regulatory standards, eliminating any delays or the need for voluntary compliance,” he explained.
Additionally, he pointed out that users stand to gain from increased awareness regarding data protection and improved safety measures designed into digital services.
“By instituting automatic licensing, the government effectively closes potential loopholes, bringing all parties to the negotiating table, regardless of their willingness to engage,” asserted Prof. Selvakumar.
Another expert in the field, Fong Choong Fook, underscored the significance of having a licensing framework that not only serves as a guideline for service providers but also sets regulatory expectations for them. He highlighted the critical need for effective enforcement of the upcoming Online Safety Act 2025 (Onsa).
“The real challenge lies in whether these regulations will be genuinely followed,” cautioned Fong, who is also the founder of the cybersecurity firm LGMS Bhd. “Without proper enforcement, the Onsa could end up being merely theoretical.”
Fong suggested that the legislation should incorporate penalties based on the revenues of the companies involved. “Monetary fines can be effective, but I propose making the chief executives of these social media platforms criminally accountable for any violations,” he added.
Similarly, Prof. Selvakumar advocated for revenue-based penalties, arguing that a maximum fine of RM10 million for non-compliance with Onsa rules would be insignificant for global tech giants.
“Think of it as a reasonable ‘warning shot,’ yet not quite strong enough to deter repeat offenders or instances of systemic negligence,” he remarked. He believes Malaysia should take cues from the European Union, which recently imposed significant fines on companies like Apple and Meta for failing to meet specific legal requirements.
“A balanced approach combining incentives and penalties is essential moving forward—offering incentives through collaborative frameworks, clear expectations, and established safety protocols, while simultaneously enforcing stricter penalties for deliberate, repeated, or harmful non-compliance.”
