CYBERJAYA, MALAYSIA January 1, 2026 – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has officially rolled out the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA), a comprehensive legal framework aimed at bolstering online safety and providing stronger protections for users, with a particular focus on children and families.
In a media statement released today, MCMC emphasized that ONSA imposes clear responsibilities on licensed service providers to combat online harms. This includes implementing risk-based safety measures, special safeguards for children, and user-friendly reporting and support mechanisms. The act applies specifically to entities holding Application Service Provider (ASP), Content Application Service Provider (CASP), or Network Service Provider (NSP) licenses under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 1998). Importantly, it does not extend to individual users.
A key highlight of the announcement is the immediate enforcement of the ‘deeming’ provision under Section 46A of the CMA 1998. This means all social media platforms that meet the licensing criteria are now automatically subject to Malaysia’s existing regulatory framework. As a result, these platforms must comply with local laws, including ONSA, ensuring greater accountability for large-scale online services operating in the country.
“This structured and phased regulatory approach is designed to hold major online platforms accountable while fostering a safer digital ecosystem,” the statement read. MCMC reiterated its commitment to collaborating with service providers, parents, educators, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and the broader community to promote a secure online environment for all, especially vulnerable groups like children and families.
The move comes amid growing concerns over online risks such as cyberbullying, misinformation, and exploitation, which have intensified with the rapid expansion of digital platforms in Malaysia. By enforcing ONSA, authorities aim to strike a balance between innovation and user protection, ensuring that technological advancements do not compromise public safety.
For more details on ONSA, including frequently asked questions, interested parties can visit the MCMC website at https://www.mcmc.gov.my/ms/media/press-releases/faq-the-online-safety-act-2025-onsa.
MCMC, headquartered in Cyberjaya, continues to oversee Malaysia’s communications and multimedia sector, promoting responsible digital growth while addressing emerging challenges in the online space.
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