Mcmc S New Code Compels Online Platforms To Have Local Moderators

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Internet messaging and social media services providers must have a content moderation team in Malaysia, according to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission's (MCMC) newly-published Code of Conduct (Best Practice).
The team, based on the code, should be equipped with training and support to understand Malaysian nuances, context and sensitivities.
The team must also deliver prompt and effective responses in all situations, the code of conduct added.
"The code was developed to support the regulatory framework for Internet messaging and social media service providers, which sets out best practices for adoption by service providers in addressing harmful content online, as well as other relevant conduct requirements.
"It is aimed at ensuring service providers uphold online safety and security, particularly for children and vulnerable groups," MCMC said in a statement today.
Last month, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil reaffirmed the government's stance on implementing a regulatory or licensing framework for service providers as it was necessary to address various internet-related issues.
Communications Minister Fahmi FadzilOn July 27, MCMC announced that all service providers with more than eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for an Applications Service Providers Class [ASP(C)] Licence from Jan 1.
Failure to do so will constitute an offence under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Acting against harmful content
Meanwhile, the code of conduct establishes several obligations on service providers such as the responsibility to ensure disciplinary measures are in place against those who create and distribute content against guidelines and local laws.
It suggested actions such as warning, reprimanding, restricting, suspending or terminating user accounts.
Service providers could also prevent repeat violations by preventing users from creating new accounts, it added.
Besides that, it said service providers must submit online safety reports to the MCMC every six months.
It explained the reports must include the results of assessments of risks on the platform as well as descriptions of measures taken to enhance online safety and other matters requested by the MCMC.
Service providers must also publish annual public reports on platforms' online safety practices, it mentioned.
"The service providers must be held accountable for their fulfilment of the above conduct requirements to ensure a safer online environment.
"This includes providing reports to demonstrate the service providers' commitment to creating a safer online environment for all users in Malaysia, especially children and those vulnerable to online harm," it stressed.
Making it disabled-friendly
Service providers must therefore keep records of content removals and conduct regular audits, it added.
Further, the code of conduct mentioned that service providers should ensure that platforms are accessible for disabled users by complying with international standards.
Platforms must provide alternative content formats and communication channels for disabled users too, it added.
The code of conduct can be accessed on the MCMC’s website. - Mkini

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