The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is currently drafting subsidiary legislation under the Online Safety Act, which was passed and gazetted in May 2025. The new rules aim to strengthen enforcement against online scams, including those involving fake advertisements and impersonation of public figures.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching confirmed that the upcoming regulations would include provisions requiring identity verification for social media advertisers, a step already taken in countries like Singapore and Taiwan.
Learning from International Examples
During a recent parliamentary session, Teo cited international practices as reference points. In Singapore, social media advertisers are required to undergo identity verification. Similarly, Taiwan mandates that platforms disclose the sponsor and payer behind each advertisement.
“These measures are intended to reduce the spread of harmful or misleading content online,” Teo explained in response to a supplementary question from Chong Chieng Jen (PH-Stampin) on legislative plans to curb online scams.
Impersonation Cases Involving Public Figures on the Rise
Teo also shared her own experience as a victim of impersonation in fake advertisements. Although she reported the incident to MCMC and the advertisement was removed by Meta, a new one was quickly uploaded.
She noted that MCMC has received 121 takedown requests involving impersonation of high-profile individuals, including ministers, political leaders, and royalty.
“I hope the ministry will receive the support of all Members of Parliament in addressing this issue,” she said.
Over 46,000 Scam-Related Posts Removed
As of 15 July 2025, a total of 46,817 scam-related posts have been taken down by MCMC. These removals followed user complaints and breaches of platform community guidelines.
Teo clarified that no social media platforms have been charged to date. This is due to the nature of content being uploaded by third-party users, with legal responsibility depending on the platform’s involvement in hosting or facilitating such content.
What’s Next for Online Safety in Malaysia?
With the Online Safety Act now in force, the subsidiary legislation being developed will further define operational requirements, particularly for platform accountability, ad transparency, and user verification processes.
Once implemented, these measures are expected to enhance online safety, reduce the prevalence of scam content, and provide clearer legal grounds for enforcement.
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