To kick off 2026, Malaysia has officially begun enforcing the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA), with revamped digital safety laws designed to tighten protections across the internet, especially for children and families. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) confirmed the act takes legal effect today, ushering in new expectations for how digital platforms must operate within the country’s cyberspace.
What the Act Means for Digital Platforms
With enforcement now live, ONSA introduces a structured regulatory framework that places defined responsibilities on licensed digital service providers to combat online harm. The act targets licensed Application Service Providers (ASPs), Content Application Service Providers (CASPs), and Network Service Providers (NSPs) operating under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
These entities are now required to implement risk-based safety measures, introduce protections tailored for kids, and offer clear reporting and support channels for users. Most importantly, the act does not apply to individual users but focuses on how platforms manage harmful material and protect their communities.
Expanded Licensing Through Deeming Provision
A key change that came into force alongside ONSA is the deeming provision under Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act. This rule automatically subjects major social media and messaging platforms to Malaysian regulation if they meet licensing criteria, even if they haven’t formally applied for a licence. This move is intended to bring large-scale platforms operating in Malaysia under the same accountability framework as local providers, aligning their responsibilities with the country’s legal standards.
Broader Context: National Cyber Safety Goals
Authorities see the Online Safety Act as part of a phased push to cultivate a safer digital ecosystem. MCMC has stated its commitment to working closely with service providers, law enforcement, parents, educators, and civil society to support safer online experiences for all Malaysians.
The act also reinforces expectations around how platforms should address priority harmful content such as child sexual abuse material (CSAM), fraud-related material, and other forms of damaging digital content. According to additional guidance released alongside the act’s enforcement, platforms are expected to roll out stronger default privacy settings, enhanced age-appropriate safety tools, and improved mechanisms that make harmful content easier to report.
Looking Ahead: Industry and Public Response
Beyond MCMC’s own statements, national institutions like the Royal Malaysia Police have highlighted the need for stronger platform accountability. Reports from law enforcement point to rising losses from online fraud and increased reports of child exploitation, factors cited in support of ONSA’s implementation.
As the new legal framework begins its rollout, Malaysia joins other jurisdictions in pushing for a more proactive approach to regulating online safety. Just a few months ago in 2025, Australia began to ban several social media and messaging platforms for under-16 users. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.
