Malaysia got a temporary local court order against messaging service Telegram for spreading harmful content. Two channels on the platform are reportedly disseminating content violating the country’s law. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission said it is seeking a court order against Telegram because it is reported that it is showing the same content repeatedly.
The two channels’ misleading names are “Edisi Siasat” and “Edisi Khas.” They can ruin public trust in national institutions and disturb societal order and harmony, and the Malaysian court has granted judgment in the case, said to stop the spread of such harmful content and prevent the re-publication of the same content.
The commission said in a statement, “Telegram will be given a fair opportunity to present its defence in line with the principles of justice and fundamental rights”
A new law related to social media for safety and security has been introduced in Malaysia. Social media platforms or message services which are having more than 8 million users have to get a licence or face legal action. The purpose of this law is to manage rising cybercrime, which is due to an increase in harmful social media content. As per the Malaysian Authority, online gambling, scam, child pornograph, cyberbullying and content related to race, religion and dignity are considered harmful and illegal.
