PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) blocked 549 pornographic websites and 69 prostitution-related websites between Jan 1 to June 1 this year, according to Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
The Deputy Minister further said that the MCMC has been collaborating with various social media providers, including X (formerly Twitter) and Telegram, in the removal of 308 incidents of pornographic content and 838 cases of prostitution-related content on the platforms during a question-and-answer session at Parliament.
She clarified that prostitution activities, whether online or offline, fall under the jurisdiction of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), with existing provisions under The Penal Code being applicable in enforcing legal actions against any individuals or parties involved in prostitution activities.
“The Ministry of Communications through the MCMC assists by providing technical support to relevant authorities, including the removal of social media content, blocking of websites, and supplying information and digital forensic analysis to expedite investigations.
“Aside from that, MCMC takes action under the Communications and Multimedia Act Malaysia 1998 if uploaded content is deemed obscene, offensive, false, threatening, or malicious,” Teo said.
Seven cases regarding online pornographic content are still under investigation by MCMC.
Teo further said that engagement sessions with social media platform providers are being conducted to strengthen commitment and cooperation in harmful content monitoring and control initiatives on social media platforms.
“In this regard, the Minister of Communications will convene a meeting with all social media platform providers this July,” she said.
This was in response to a question from Beaufort MP, Datuk Hajah Siti Aminah Binti Aching, on how the government intends to deal with those offering prostitution activities on online platforms.