KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA January 1, 2026 – The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has thrown its full support behind the government’s newly announced Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA), hailing it as a crucial step to bolster digital security and hold online platforms accountable for protecting users from escalating cyber dangers.
In a media statement released yesterday, Inspector-General of Police Dato’ Sri Hj. Mohd Khalid Bin Hj. Ismail emphasized the growing severity of online crimes, which have directly impacted public welfare. “PDRM takes note that threats from online crimes are increasingly serious and have a direct effect on societal well-being,” the statement read.
Citing alarming statistics, the PDRM revealed that Malaysians incurred losses totaling RM2.77 billion due to online fraud scams between January 2023 and November 2025. Additionally, cases of online child sexual exploitation have surged, with 688 incidents recorded from January 2021 to November 2025. Related to this, 351 cases involving Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) were documented from January 2021 to October 2025.
The ONSA, described as a fresh legal framework, aims to empower authorities in curbing the spread of harmful content, disrupting cyber criminal operations, and intensifying measures against child exploitation, online fraud, identity misuse, and extremist materials. This approach aligns with broader commitments to safeguard citizens in an evolving digital landscape.
“PDRM is confident that the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA) will strengthen protection for users, enhance the integrity of the national digital space, and ensure the safety of future generations in facing an increasingly complex cyber landscape,” the statement concluded.
To implement the act effectively, PDRM pledged ongoing close collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), relevant ministries, and digital platform providers under a whole-of-government strategy. This will enable faster, more organized, and effective responses to cybercrimes.
Internally, the force plans to ramp up its capabilities through improved digital monitoring, refined investigation processes, and enhanced strategic information sharing—while maintaining operational security.
The announcement comes amid global concerns over online safety, with Malaysia joining countries like Australia and the UK in enacting similar legislation to regulate digital platforms. Experts suggest the ONSA could impose duties on tech giants to proactively remove harmful content, potentially reducing the burden on law enforcement.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, the PDRM’s endorsement signals a unified push toward a safer online environment for all Malaysians.
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