New rules for social media to promote positive content - Expert

KUALA LUMPUR - The government's decision to mandate licences for all social media platforms is seen as a strategic move to address issues like cyberbullying and subversive threats.

Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Media and Information Warfare Studies Centre, security and political analyst Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin said this initiative aims to tighten social media regulations and enhance law enforcement.

"Licencing will streamline regulation and facilitate better cooperation between the government and social media platforms in tackling misconduct. This is crucial for ensuring oversight, particularly in combating cyberbullying, subversive threats and similar challenges," he told Bernama.

Dr Noor Nirwandy added that social media licencing would also foster closer collaboration between the government and platform operators in developing early warning systems for users.

This is critical for identifying and preventing the spread of radical or extreme content, which could lead to disruption through the dissemination of false or misleading information.

"There needs to be a concerted effort to ensure that positive algorithms are developed collaboratively between the government and social media platforms, promoting content that emphasises human values and unity," he said.

He added that social media platforms should also assist the government and society in showcasing and promoting these positive values.

Earlier, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that all social media and Internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for a Class Licence for Application Service Providers under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).

This requirement will take effect on January 1, 2025, following the introduction of a new regulatory framework for social media services and Internet messaging starting this month.

Meanwhile, Associate Prof Dr Sueraya Che Haron, a lecturer at the Language and Literacy Department, International Islamic University Malaysia (UIAM), emphasised that while it is exciting to embrace the rapid growth of social media, users must remain mindful of the platform's darker aspects and the potential negative consequences of its misuse.

She stressed the importance of maintaining decency and tolerance, as guided by Eastern religions and customs, while using social media.

"Recently, many inappropriate videos have gone viral on social media. These include content showing arguments, domestic disputes, offensive behavior and flashy attire, all of which have attracted hundreds of thousands of views.

"Such issues must be addressed to ensure Malaysians use social media responsibly and to prevent the spread of negative influences that can harm our values and character," she said.

She also commended the MCMC for its consistent efforts to curb inappropriate content on social media.

As a responsible agency, MCMC is committed to improving digital literacy by promoting awareness of responsible social media use and preventing its misuse for unlawful purposes, she added. - BERNAMA