Malaysia's communications regulator has implemented a groundbreaking social media licensing framework, granting Tencent's WeChat and ByteDance's TikTok official permissions to operate in the country as of January 1, 2025. The new law requires social media and messaging platforms with over 8 million Malaysian users to obtain an Applications Service Provider Class (ASP(C)) licence, aimed at combating rising cybercrime and ensuring a safer online environment. This regulatory move represents a significant step in addressing digital safety concerns, with platforms now legally obligated to monitor and control harmful online content.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) revealed that while WeChat and TikTok were the first to secure licences, other major platforms remain in various stages of compliance. Meta Platforms, which manages Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has initiated the licensing process, while Telegram is in the final stages of obtaining its permit. Notably, X (formerly Twitter) and Google's YouTube have not yet submitted applications, with X claiming its user base does not meet the 8 million threshold and Google disputing its classification as a social media platform.

The regulatory framework introduces substantial consequences for non-compliance, with potential fines up to RM500,000, imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both. Platforms can face additional daily fines of RM1,000 for continued non-compliance. Malaysian authorities have specifically targeted harmful online content, including online gambling, scams, child pornography, cyberbullying, and content related to sensitive topics like race, religion, and royalty. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasized that the government's intention is to address online crimes without hindering technological innovation.

User data provides context for the new regulations, with independent advisory firm Kepios reporting significant platform usage in Malaysia: TikTok has 28.68 million users aged 18 and above, YouTube has approximately 24.1 million users, Facebook has 22.35 million users, and WeChat specifically has 12 million users. The licensing requirement applies exclusively to platforms and service providers, with individual users and groups not being subject to the new regulations. The MCMC has also released a comprehensive code of conduct on December 20, 2024, establishing best practices for licensed service providers in addressing harmful content and maintaining digital safety.