Malaysia has issued a legal notice to TikTok, demanding the social media platform explain its failure to swiftly remove offensive and fake content targeting the country's royal institution. The Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced the action on Thursday, following the circulation of what it described as 'grossly offensive, false, menacing and insulting' material, including AI-generated videos and manipulated images linked to an account falsely claiming association with King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar.
Regulator Cites Sensitive Issues
The MCMC stated that such content falls within Malaysia's sensitive issues of race, religion, and royalty, which are 'highly sensitive and may undermine public order, national harmony and respect for constitutional institutions.' The regulator expressed dissatisfaction with TikTok's moderation response, particularly its failure to ensure prompt removal and prevent further dissemination of the offensive material, despite prior notifications and engagements.
Legal Notice and Required Actions
According to the commission, TikTok has been issued a legal notice requiring it to explain its moderation failures and undertake immediate remedial measures. These include strengthening content moderation mechanisms and improving enforcement against content that violates Malaysian laws and community standards. The MCMC warned that social media platforms operating in Malaysia are expected to exercise greater responsibility in preventing unlawful and harmful activities on their services.
The regulator cautioned that it would continue to take 'firm and proportionate action' to ensure digital platforms comply with their responsibilities in maintaining a safe and respectful online environment. TikTok has not publicly commented on the case and did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.
Broader Crackdown on Digital Platforms
The move is part of Malaysia's broader push to tighten oversight of digital platforms. In recent years, authorities have stepped up enforcement against social media companies over harmful content, scams, online gambling, and material deemed offensive or threatening to public order. This latest action underscores the government's commitment to holding platforms accountable for content that could disrupt national stability.
