KUALA LUMPUR – Stricter penalties for certain online offences under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) officially came into force on February 11, following amendments approved by Parliament last December, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.
He explained that the amendments refine legal definitions, ensuring more precise enforcement.
“Certain acts previously classified as offensive are now explicitly defined as ‘grossly offensive,’ making the law clearer and preventing overly broad interpretations,” he said at the Temu Anak Muda Lembah Pantai programme today, Bernama reported.
He also highlighted that the revised provisions provide clearer guidelines for both the defence and prosecution, enhancing transparency and reducing potential misuse of the law.
The updated legislation, which was gazetted on February 7, aims to curb online crimes such as paedophilia, scams, and illegal gambling, creating a safer digital environment.
Fahmi also urged the public to be cautious when sharing information online, particularly on social media.
“If mainstream media do not report on an issue, or if viral content uses different wording, I urge everyone not to share or repost, as this could also be an offence,” he warned.
The amendments to Act 588 were passed in the Dewan Rakyat on December 9, 2024, with 59 MPs voting in favour, 40 against, one abstaining, and 122 absent.
During the parliamentary debate, Fahmi reaffirmed the government’s decision to retain Section 233 of Act 588, stressing that it remains crucial in preventing the misuse of communication networks, particularly for commercial exploitation such as the sale of pornographic and paedophilic content. – February 16, 2025