The Malaysian government has been trying to get social media tech giants to register a license to operate here. But so far, we have not seen much success as Google, X and Meta have yet to obtain their social media licenses. This news was reported back in March 2025.
Today, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has announced that internet messaging and social media platforms with at least eight million users in the country will be automatically regarded as registered holders of the Class ASP(C) Application Service Provider licence starting 1 January 2026, under the implementation of the Deeming Provision of Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Strengthening Regulatory Framework for Major Platforms
The regulatory update aims to ensure that major platforms offering internet messaging and social media services in Malaysia operate within the nation’s legal and regulatory framework in an organised, consistent, and effective manner. MCMC said this approach aligns with broader licensing frameworks for internet messaging and social media service providers that came into force on 1 January 2025, with the goal of bolstering accountability and compliance with Malaysian law.
Focus on Online Safety and Platform Responsibility
Once again, MCMC emphasised that the Deeming Provision is designed to clarify and strengthen the responsibilities of participating platforms regarding user safety, particularly for children and families. The provision will apply to global messaging and social media services that meet the user threshold, including household names such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, effective from the first day of 2026.
Existing Licence Status and Operational Continuity
Services that are already registered as ASP(C) licence holders will maintain their registration, with the new rule taking effect only after the expiry of the current licence terms. MCMC also stressed that the platforms involved will continue to operate through their global platforms as usual. The regulator indicated that this regulatory direction is in line with international best practices for overseeing large-scale online services.
Collaboration on Online Safety Enforcement
As part of ongoing efforts to improve online safety, MCMC said it will continue to cooperate with service providers and enforcement agencies to strengthen protections for users across Malaysia, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding children and families in the digital environment. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.
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