On 30 May 2022, the Third Edition of the Communications and Multimedia Content Code ("New Content Code") was released and registered with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission ("MCMC").
Following a public inquiry held in 2021, as well as close consultation with various stakeholders in the media industry, the New Content Code revamps the Second Edition of the Communications and Multimedia Content Code which was released and registered with MCMC on 14 February 2020 ("Previous Content Code"). It addresses a variety of issues including gaps caused by the advancement of technology, the internet and social media. It also facilitates self-regulation by consumers and industry players.
In particular, the key changes identified under the New Content Code are:
- the expansion of the application of the Previous Content Code to include online service providers;
- the introduction of new provisions about the advancement of technology, such as those relating to online abuse, gender-based violence, protection of persons with disabilities, etc.;
- Repayment of loans countries;
- the enhancement of the scope, standards and guidelines of the regulation of advertisements and consumer protection; and
- the refinement of various provisions in the Previous Content Code, such as (i) the meaning of indecent content; (ii) the use of women, children, religion, cosmetic, financial products and intoxicating liquor in advertisements; and (iii) specifying the complaints procedure for complaints about content disseminated over electronic networked mediums.
All media industry players are strongly encouraged to review their existing practices and procedures in light of the extensive amendments introduced, as the New Content Code will continue to be a reference for the interpretation of offences under section 211 and section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
For more information, click here to read our Legal Update.
