Malaysians spend eight hours online daily, says Ipsos Report

MALAYSIANS spend an average of eight hours a day online, making the country one of the most active internet users in Southeast Asia, according to the Ipsos Digital 2025 report.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said, however, that the ministry had received more than 15,000 complaints last year involving harmful online content, fake news, and cybercrime.

“As a result, the ministry is in the process of formulating several new legal and policy frameworks, including a more comprehensive and balanced Anti-Fake News Act,” he said.

He added that the government is also developing a framework on artificial intelligence (AI) in the media sector to ensure the technology is used ethically and does not spread misinformation.

Fahmi’s speech was delivered by the Communications Ministry Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, at the opening of the International Media and Communication Conference 2025 (MENTION2025) organised by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) at the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX).

Also present were UKM Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Dean, Professor Dr Kadaruddin Aiyub; Director-General of the Malaysian Broadcasting Department, Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman; and MENTION2025 Conference Director, Dr Arina Anis Azlan.

Fahmi said the three-day conference would focus on five key themes, including the importance of incorporating media and digital literacy into both formal and informal education, and fostering inclusive communication approaches within Malaysia’s multicultural society.

He also highlighted the need to strengthen health communication, particularly in addressing mental health issues among Malaysians, especially the youth.

“The role of young people in advocacy and social change must not be underestimated,” he said, adding that collaboration among the government, academia, media industry, and civil society is crucial in shaping effective and holistic communication policies.

Now in its 19th edition, MENTION2025 brings together over 80 participants and speakers, including academics, media professionals, policymakers, and community representatives from Malaysia and abroad.

With the theme “Media and Communication for Change: Driving Transformation and Societal Wellbeing,” the conference focuses on Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) as a catalyst for positive social transformation. - October 28, 2025