News & Reviews:   Fahmi Fadzil

Yesterday, Telegram finally met up with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Ministry of Communications and Digital. In conclusion, it was reported that Telegram will be working closely with the Malaysian government as well as the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) to tackle cybercrime.

Previously, we reported that the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is weighing its options with Telegram, including blocking the platform. This is after the platform refused to meet with the commission as well as the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD) regarding issues of spreading pornography, hate groups, scams and others.

Well, It seems that the disagreement may resolve soon as the former has finally agreed to meet with MCMC and KKD. As reported by Malaysiakini, the meeting was confirmed by KKD Minister Fahmi Fadzil after being queried by the press.

The 5G network rollout in our country has been relatively successful, albeit not as straightforward as Malaysians would’ve preferred. Case in point, the government recently announced that it will move from a single 5G network to a dual model after the former’s coverage reaches 80% of populated areas.  

In the ongoing drama, it was reported that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is deciding what to do after Telegram won't cooperate or respond. According to the COO, Zulkarnain Mohd Yasin, MCMC may have to block the social messaging platform.

Back in April, it was decided that a second 5G network in Malaysia. This creates competition for DNB, which local telcos are keen for. Chinese 5G equipment makers are in consideration for the second network and could proceed despite warnings from Western countries.

In March, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) started scrutinising Telegram over the contents being spread on the platform. It has since responded that it didn't want to "participate in political censorship". Now, the ministry could be ready to drop the hammer.

Back in March, the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD) wanted to meet up with Telegram regarding issues of spreading pornography, hate groups, scams and others. Telegram didn't bother, though, but here's the real reason why the group refused to cooperate with KKD.

5G coverage hasn't increased as fast as some have hoped, but there's definitely progress for Malaysia. As a reminder, the government plans to have DNB's 5G network reach 80% coverage of populated areas by the end of the year. Recently, a few notable updates have been reported.

By now, you should know scams in Malaysia have been quite prominent. Not only are we getting scam messages from our mobile phones, but they also exist in Facebook Ads which poses a huge problem. To address this problem, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil is going to take action.

Today, the Malaysian government announced that the 5G network in Malaysia will continue to be implemented through Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB). However, DNB was given a timeframe until the end of 2023, when it reaches 80% coverage in subsidised areas.