Public feedback sought on Malaysian Content Code 2021

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF), an independent self-regulatory industry organisation registered under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), is inviting public feedback on the Communications and Multimedia Content Code of Malaysia 2021 (Content Code) that is up for revision.

The CMCF is currently undertaking a nationwide public consultation exercise, aimed at gathering feedback from members of the public on proposed revisions to the Content Code.

The exercise will take place from the end of September to early November 2021, a press statement issued by the CMCF said on Tuesday.

“The Malaysian content environment relies on self-regulation to empower consumers and encourage the industry to grow.  All of us are responsible for the self-regulation of content –those who create it, spread it and consume it. This includes broadcasters, content creators, advertisers, social media influencers and the like. With self-regulation, we can all continue to enjoy content while our rights and safety continue to be safeguarded.

“The Content Code is a key reference point for everyone; outlining best practices and standards for responsible content creation and consumption across all digital media platforms. The review of the Content Code will tackle policy gaps in content regulation and will help consumers to better practice self-regulation. Everyone is given the opportunity to contribute to the new version of the Content Code, as it will continue to be a reference for the interpretation of offences under Section 211 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

“The final draft of the new Content Code will take into account the public consultation findings before it is submitted for registration by MCMC,” the CMCF said.

It said the public consultation is to ensure sustenance of good practices in the content environment and help increase consumer protection.  

“Among the proposed revisions include guiding all content creators and protect consumers on the creation of content and advertisers, including those that exploit religion, children, as well as third-parties such as influencers, who do not disclose paid arrangements. The revisions also further empower and protects the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and safeguards the general public from online abuse and gender-based violence.”

Members of the public are encouraged to provide feedback on this public consultation to ensure that Content Code version 2021 takes into account consumer’s current needs and concerns. Further information on this exercise can be accessed at www.contentforum.my.  

The CMCF is designated by the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA’98) to oversee and promote self-regulation of content over the electronic networked medium. The Content Forum consists of key players of the content industry including advertisers, broadcasters, content creators/distributors, audiotext hosting services providers, internet service providers and civic groups.

The Content Code was prepared by the Content Forum and first registered with MCMC on 1st September 2004. The Content Code is the principal source for industry self-regulation as it contains governing standards and best practices for content dissemination within the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia. The main objective of the Content Code is to outline procedures of self-regulation that provides the platform for creativity, innovation and heathy growth of a fast-evolving industry.

CMCF houses a Complaints Bureau that is empowered to address all complaints relating to content disseminated over electronic networks. The Complaints Bureau is empowered to investigate possible breaches of the Content Code, mediate disputes, adjudicate cases, publish orders and impose sanctions where necessary. The Complaints Bureau accepts complaints from industry players and the general public. Additionally, it plays an advisory role to any party that requires guidance on electronic content matters. 

–WE