MCMC to deem major messaging, social media platforms registered from January 2026

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has announced that all internet messaging and social media service providers with eight million or more users in Malaysia will be deemed registered as Applications Service Provider Class (ASP(C)) licensees starting 1 January 2026.

In a statement issued on 15 December 2025, MCMC said the affected providers fall under the licensing framework for internet messaging and social media services and will be registered through a dispensation of formalities under Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. The deeming provision applies to large-scale platforms operating in Malaysia.

According to the commission, the move is intended to ensure that major service providers operate within Malaysia’s legal and regulatory framework in a consistent and effective manner. It is also aligned with the licensing framework for internet messaging and social media service providers that came into force on 1 January 2025, which aims to strengthen accountability and compliance with Malaysian law.

MCMC said the initiative is also intended to clarify platform responsibility for user safety, particularly in relation to protecting children and families online.

Service providers that meet the prescribed criteria include WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. The deeming provision will take effect on 1 January 2026.

The commission added that service providers already registered as ASP(C) licensees will remain registered, with the deeming provision applying only after the expiry of their existing registration period.

MCMC noted that the affected platforms will continue operating their global services as usual, and said the approach is consistent with international practices for regulating large-scale online platforms.

The commission also said it will continue working with service providers and relevant law enforcement agencies to strengthen online safety measures for users in Malaysia, particularly for children and families.