KPWKM STRENGTHENS CHILD SAFETY IN DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 15 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) will continue to strengthen comprehensive child protection initiatives, including online safety awareness programmes and related legal enforcement, said its minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.

She said the ministry remains committed to strategic and integrated collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and other relevant agencies to ensure prevention, early detection and protection measures are implemented effectively and on an ongoing basis.

“These regulatory strengthening efforts are crucial in safeguarding children, who are increasingly exposed to online risks such as sexual exploitation, fraud, cyber harassment and inappropriate content.

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“A safer digital environment not only protects children’s well-being but also gives parents and families greater confidence in guiding the responsible use of technology,” she said in a statement today.

Earlier, MCMC announced that all internet messaging and social media service providers with eight million or more users in Malaysia will be automatically deemed registered as Class Licence holders for Application Service Providers [ASP(C)] from Jan 1, 2026, following the implementation of the deeming provision under Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

According to MCMC, the provision aims to ensure platforms bear clearer responsibilities for user safety, particularly in protecting children and families.

Meanwhile, Nancy said that child protection is a shared responsibility and encouraged the public to report any concerns or cases involving the safety of children and families so that immediate action can be taken.

Reports can be made via Talian Kasih 15999 or WhatsApp 019-261 5999, which operate 24 hours a day to ensure timely assistance and protection.

“Strengthening digital safety requires awareness, unity and continued commitment from all parties to ensure children grow up in a safe, secure and nurturing environment, in line with the government’s goal of preserving the well-being of families and society,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education (MOE), in a separate statement, welcomed MCMC’s introduction of the Deeming Provision, noting that it would ensure large-scale internet messaging and social media service providers operate within a clear, consistent and effective national legal and regulatory framework.

“Within the education sector, this initiative can enhance the safety of students and education personnel from cyber threats such as sexual exploitation, fraud and the misuse of digital platforms,” it said.

The ministry said it would strengthen cooperation with stakeholders, including MCMC and PDRM, to further improve digital security for students and education staff.

-- BERNAMA