TikTok and WeChat Gets Malaysian Licences
As Malaysia’s new social media licensing regime took effect on the 1st of January 2025, TikTok and WeChat have successfully secured the necessary licenses to continue operating within the country. This was confirmed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in a recent update on X.
Berikut merupakan platform-platform media sosial dan penyedia perkhidmatan pesanan Internet yang terlibat. #MCMC pic.twitter.com/lhHF9Wsl03
— MCMC (@MCMC_RASMI) January 1, 2025
The new legal framework requires messaging and social media platforms with over eight million Malaysian users to obtain a local operating license. As a result, the MCMC has identified eight platforms that fall under this rule. These platforms include TikTok, WeChat, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Facebook, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram.
TikTok and WeChat have successfully secured their licenses. However, the licensing process for Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp is still ongoing. Notably, X (formerly Twitter) has yet to submit an application, claiming to have fewer than eight million Malaysian users. The MCMC is currently verifying this claim and determining the appropriate classification for YouTube under the new licensing framework.
Non-compliance with the new regulations can result in significant penalties. These may include fines of up to RM500,000. Offenders may also face imprisonment of up to five years. In some cases, both fines and imprisonment can apply.
After a public consultation in October, the MCMC has recently published an updated draft. This draft outlines the Code of Conduct (Best Practice) for Internet Messaging and Social Media Service Providers. The final version of this code is expected to be released soon.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has previously assured the public that the government will not impose an outright ban on unlicensed social media platforms. This will be the case even after the deadline passes.
This development marks a significant step in Malaysia’s efforts to regulate the digital landscape and ensure responsible use of social media platforms within the country.
