Malaysia vs. Meta: Regulatory Debate Under Pressure

A senior representative from Meta Platforms has criticized Malaysia's plan requiring social media to apply for a regulatory license by January. This measure aims to reduce digital abuse, but Meta questions the clarity of the guidelines and the short deadline, which could threaten digital growth. In July, Malaysia announced that social networks and messaging services with over eight million users would need to be regulated. This regulation is part of an initiative to combat financial fraud, cyberbullying, and sexual offenses online. Non-compliance will result in legal consequences from January 1, 2025. Nevertheless, the plans have faced resistance, including from an Asian industry association involving Meta, which called for a delay in August. However, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasized that technology companies must adhere to local laws to continue operating in the country. Rafael Frankel, Meta's Director of Public Policy for Southeast Asia, stated that his company has not yet decided whether to apply for a license before the January deadline. The reason is the unclear nature of the new regulations and the "exceptionally short" timeframe. Such regulations usually take years to properly structure and balance the need for safety with digital growth, Frankel added in an interview with Reuters. The Malaysian communications ministry's media release remained uncommented. After a meeting with Meta representatives, Minister Fahmi thanked the company for its willingness to cooperate in a Facebook post. He appealed to Meta, however, to take stronger measures against sexual content involving minors on its platforms. Frankel emphasized that Meta shares the goal of a safe online environment and is working closely with the communications regulator to remove or restrict harmful content. A licensing requirement is not necessary for this, as security aspects are already treated as a priority. Meta has conveyed its concerns to the government and hopes to bridge the differences before the regulatory framework is implemented, Frankel continued, without going into detail.