At the start of the new year, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) issued a strong warning against the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate harmful content online. The regulator says it has received numerous public complaints involving AI-powered image manipulation, particularly cases targeting women and minors.
According to MCMC, these incidents involve digitally altered images that result in indecent, grossly offensive, or otherwise harmful material being circulated on social platforms, including X.
Creating and Sharing AI-Generated Harmful Content Is a Criminal Offence
MCMC stressed that producing or transmitting such content is a criminal offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. The law prohibits the misuse of network services or application platforms to disseminate obscene, indecent, or grossly offensive material. The commission confirmed that it will initiate investigations into X users suspected of violating the Act, signalling a firmer stance on AI-related digital abuse.
Online Safety Act 2025 Strengthens Platform Responsibilities
With the enforcement of the Online Safety Act 2025, licensed online platforms and service providers are now legally required to implement measures that prevent the spread of harmful online content. This includes obscene material, indecent content, and child sexual abuse materials. MCMC noted that the Act reinforces the responsibility of digital platforms to proactively address online harms rather than relying solely on user reporting.
X Under Investigation Despite Not Being a Licensed Provider
Although X is currently not a licensed service provider in Malaysia, MCMC stated that the platform still has a duty to prevent the dissemination of harmful content accessible to Malaysian users. The regulator confirmed it is actively investigating online harms occurring on X and plans to call in representatives from the platform as part of its inquiry.
Call for Stronger AI Safeguards Across Digital Platforms
MCMC urged all online platforms operating in Malaysia to implement safeguards that align with local laws and online safety standards. Particular attention is being placed on AI-powered features such as chatbots and image manipulation tools, which the commission views as high risk if left unchecked.
The commission says public cooperation is crucial in curbing the misuse of AI and ensuring a safer digital environment in Malaysia. Internet users and victims of online abuse are also encouraged to report harmful content directly to the relevant platforms.
MCMC advises lodging reports with the Royal Malaysia Police and submitting complaints through MCMC’s official online complaints portal. We also recently wrote an article about the misuse of AI content to mislead people online, which made social media in 2025 worse than it has ever been. Stay safe and stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.
