KUALA LUMPUR – Online network regulators in Asean nations should discuss the best way to adopt consumer protection laws while considering diversity in the various countries.
According to Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority’s (IMDA) Vanessa Yeo, it is vital to first recognise how different Asean member states have varying sociocultural contexts which should be considered when developing regulations for the e-commerce industry.
“Once we have that understanding, bringing regulators together (will allow) us to have deep conversations on understanding our commonalities and common points as well as the common problems we face.
“From there, we can try to work out what it is that we can agree on and draw up a common proposal,” Yeo said during the 2024 International Regulatory Conference (IRC) here yesterday.
As such, Yeo, who is IMDA’s strategic policy and operations cluster director, commended the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) efforts in organising the conference which aims to provide a platform for international speakers to share their insights and engage in dialogues on regulatory frameworks, among others.
Yeo, who was present as a panellist during a winding-up session, said this in response to a question on potential strategies and collaborative efforts Asean member states can employ to effectively implement and realise the Asean Trusted Mark Scheme for e-commerce.
Meanwhile, Brunei’s Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry senior manager Melissa Tithymirda Nikman posited that regulators should consider their role more comprehensively.
This, Melissa said, is because regulatory bodies nowadays should consider how their responsibilities extend beyond merely ensuring network connectivity. They also have the duty to ensure vulnerable groups are protected from online harms.
The session, moderated by MCMC chief corporate and international officer Syahrilazli Mahammad also touched on the regulatory approaches in each panellists’ respective nation, the objectives behind such initiatives, and the success of implementing such policies.
Other panellists joining Yeo were Indonesia’s Communication and Information Technology Ministry’s Centre for International Affairs Head Ichwan Makmur Nasution, Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission director Pitchayanuch Chalacheva, as well as Philippines’ Information and Communications Technology Department’s Policy Research and Analysis Division planning officer Ariel Gonzales.
In his opening remarks at the two-day conference, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the event marked a pivotal moment for regulatory professionals globally to exchange perspectives, cultivate collaborations and influence the trajectory of regulation in our ever-evolving global landscape.
He added that Malaysia – which will take over the chairmanship of the regional bloc next year – hopes to collaborate with other member states to improve regulation of the communications and multimedia industry.
“Malaysia is actively involved in regional initiatives advocating for good regulatory practices, such as the Asean Regulatory Cooperation Project.
“This project is instrumental in establishing regulatory environments which not only facilitate free and open trade and investment but also safeguard human health, safety, the environment, and security.
“To address both current and future challenges and trends from within and outside the region, we propose to develop an inspiring, inclusive, and forward-looking post-2025 vision for the Asean community, spanning the next 20 years.
“The regional regulatory framework on online safety is anticipated to facilitate coordination and collaboration among Asean member states in addressing common challenges related to online safety, as well as building regional consensus on Asean’s commitment to safeguarding the digital environment.”
Highlighting the government’s dedication to fostering a secure digital environment for all citizens, Fahmi pointed to how Putrajaya has introduced the Cybersecurity Bill 2024, a legislative measure aimed at strengthening the national cybersecurity framework.
“Once regulated, these platforms will be required to observe Malaysia laws and are expected to adhere to certain conduct requirements, including by proposing a restriction on social media usage for those under 13.”
Fahmi also said the regulatory adjustments are expected to deeply influence competitive dynamics, bolster consumer protection and set new standards for business practices.
These changes, he added, are essential for fostering a robust and fair communication and multimedia environment. – May 7, 2024