The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said on Friday, June 23, 2023, that it will take legal action against Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, for failing to remove “undesirable” content on the social media platform.
The MCMC sent notices to Meta since 2021, asking to remove harmful content including racism, sexism, and porn. Meta did not comply with the notices, said MCMC.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is taking legal action against Meta for non-compliance with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which mandates the removal of harmful content by internet service providers and social media platforms.
The MCMC also said that it is taking legal action to protect the public from the harmful effects of this content. The commission said that this content can have a negative impact on people’s mental health and can also lead to violence and crime.
If the MCMC succeeds in its legal action, Meta may face fines of up to RM5 million per day for each content piece not removed. Additionally, Meta could be prohibited from operating in Malaysia.
The legal action may affect other social media platforms in Malaysia, with a zero-tolerance approach to harmful content. Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission will take legal action against non-compliant companies.
The MCMC has not yet filed a lawsuit against Meta. However, the commission has said that it is preparing the lawsuit and that it will be filed soon.
The case against Meta may impact social media content regulation in other countries. MCMC’s legal action signifies governments’ readiness to act against non-compliant social media companies. Such actions could inspire other governments to follow suit.
The MCMC is planning to sue Meta and will file the lawsuit soon. Its outcome is uncertain, but it may affect social media companies in Malaysia and other countries.
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