PUTRAJAYA, The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will introduce a new regulatory framework for safe Internet use by children and families on August 1, with implementation set for January 1, 2025. In a statement today, MCMC said this move aligns with the Cabinet's decision to ensure that social media and Internet messaging services comply with Malaysian laws to address rising cybercrime, including online fraud, cyberbullying and sexual crimes against children. Under the new framework, social media and Internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for an Application Service Provider Class Licence under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588). 'This framework applies only to platforms that meet the licensing requirements and does not affect individual users," read the statement. MCMC warned that failure to obtain a licence by the effective date will constitute an offence, subject to legal action under Act 588. The Commis sion said this initiative aims to create a safer online ecosystem and improve the experience for users, particularly children and families. Previously, social media platforms and Internet messaging services were exempted from licensing requirements based on the Communications and Multimedia (Licensing) (Exemptions) Order 2000. Source: BERNAMA News Agency