Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC)

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is a government agency that regulates the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia, ensuring the development and growth of telecommunications and broadcasting services.

CCI Score

-19.77

15.96% June 19

Latest Event

MCMC Files Civil Suit Against Telegram Over Malicious Content

On 2025-06-19, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) initiated a civil lawsuit against Telegram, alleging that the social media platform disseminated content that could erode public trust and threaten social order. An injunction was issued to halt the spread of the claimed malicious material, and MCMC warned of similar actions against other platforms to enforce compliance with Malaysian laws.

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ENABLER

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is currently rated as an Enabler.

-10 to -19 CCI Score

Companies in this segment facilitate authoritarian practices while claiming neutrality. They provide resources or support that indirectly bolster oppressive regimes, thereby undermining democratic accountability without overtly endorsing the regime.

Latest Events

JUN

19

2025

MCMC Files Civil Suit Against Telegram Over Malicious Content
60.00

On 2025-06-19, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) initiated a civil lawsuit against Telegram, alleging that the social media platform disseminated content that could erode public trust and threaten social order. An injunction was issued to halt the spread of the claimed malicious material, and MCMC warned of similar actions against other platforms to enforce compliance with Malaysian laws.
DEC

09

2024

CMA Amendments Expand MCMC Powers Over Online Content
-75.89

On December 9, 2024, the Malaysian Parliament passed amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act that grant the MCMC sweeping powers to regulate online content, including warrantless searches, compelled data disclosures from service providers, and immunity from judicial oversight. These changes have raised significant concerns among civil society and human rights organizations about increased censorship and reduced freedom of expression.
-80

Public and Political Behavior

June 19

The amendments significantly empower the MCMC to control and censor online content without proper judicial oversight, posing a risk to freedom of expression and democratic accountability. This expansion of authority aligns with authoritarian practices by potentially enabling selective enforcement and surveillance, leading to a chilling effect on dissent.

The passing of the CMA Amendments is another step backwards for freedom of expression
AUG

01

2024

MCMC Enforces Digital Censorship with Internet Killswitch Measures
-73.23

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) blocked access to online news portals such as MalaysiaNow and TV Pertiwi as part of a government move to implement an 'internet killswitch' aimed at combating cybercrime. Critics warn that this step may stifle free expression and promote authoritarian censorship.
-80

Media Influence and Propaganda

June 19

MCMC's decision to block key online news sources under the guise of curbing misinformation reflects a clear authoritarian approach to regulating digital content. By limiting access to independent news outlets, MCMC is effectively using its regulatory power to suppress dissent and restrict digital freedoms, echoing similar repressive measures seen in other authoritarian regimes.

Authoritarian Trends: Malaysia Next With An "Internet Killswitch"
JUL

29

2024

MCMC Mandates Licensing for Social Media Platforms
-36.59

On July 29, 2024, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that all social media and internet messaging services with at least eight million registered users in Malaysia must apply for a Class Licence by August 1, 2024, with enforcement beginning on January 1, 2025. While the regulation is presented as a measure to combat cybercrime and protect children and families, human rights groups such as Lawyers for Liberty have criticized the move as an authoritarian attempt to suppress online criticism and curb free speech.
-40

Public and Political Behavior

June 19

The licensing mandate by MCMC, while aimed at combating cybercrime, raises concerns about potential government overreach and suppression of dissent. Critics, including human rights organizations, argue that the regulation could be used to stifle online criticism. From an anti-fascist perspective, such measures are viewed as aligning with authoritarian practices, justifying a negative score in the Public and Political Behavior category.

Government Mandates Licensing For Social Media And Messaging Platforms
SEP

05

2023

MCMC Regulatory Initiative on Digital Platforms
54.72

On 5 September 2023, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced discussions with online platforms and consideration of new regulatory frameworks. The initiative aims to address online harms, ensure fair compensation for news content creators, promote local content, and implement guidelines for artificial intelligence usage.
+70

Public and Political Behavior

June 19

MCMC’s proactive engagement in discussions to regulate digital platforms and combat harmful online content, while ensuring fair compensation for news creators, represents a strong public policy effort that protects marginalized groups and counters authoritarian manipulation of media.

Malaysia: MCMC addresses online harm, imbalanced media and AI
+60

Technology and Services Impact

June 19

The planned implementation of 'rules of the road' for AI reflects a commitment to ensuring that emerging technologies are governed in a way that protects consumers, maintains fair competition, and prevents the misuse of technology for authoritarian ends.

Malaysia: MCMC addresses online harm, imbalanced media and AI
MAR

01

2023

MCMC's Crackdown on Online Speech
-47.65

In March 2023, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) intensified its crackdown on online speech by opening 23 investigations into TikTok content under Section 233 of the CMA, alongside numerous arrests and prosecutions related to content deemed insulting to the monarchy and sensitive to racial or religious issues. These actions contribute to suppressing free expression and align with broader authoritarian practices that curb dissent.
-60

Public and Political Behavior

June 19

The MCMC's enforcement measures, including the opening of multiple investigations and punitive actions against online content, have resulted in a significant restriction on free speech. Such state-backed censorship is symptomatic of authoritarian behavior, undermining democratic principles and marginalizing dissenting voices.

Malaysia: Freedom on the Net 2023 Country Report