Holding onto a spirit of cooperation and a shared vision for the future, leaders will continue to work hand-in-hand for a more integrated, inclusive, and technologically advanced world.
Minister Of Communications Fahmi Fadzil, said this today (May 6) to about 800 participants from ASEAN, Korea, Australia, and the United Kingdom at the first International Regulatory Conference 2024 (IRC 2024), two-day conference.
“This marks a pivotal moment for regulatory professionals globally to exchange perspectives, cultivate collaborations, and influence the trajectory of regulation in our ever-evolving global landscape.
Fahmi explained that since 2018, Malaysia has taken significant steps to enhance its regulatory framework through active participation in key trade agreements. “These agreements include provisions that promote better regulation, demonstrating our commitment to improving our business environment.
“Malaysia is notably a proud signatory of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) and has also signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, known as the CPTPP. Furthermore, Malaysia is actively involved in regional initiatives advocating for good regulatory practices, such as the ASEAN Regulatory Cooperation Project (ARCP).”
This project is instrumental in establishing regulatory environments that not only facilitate free and open trade and investment but also safeguard human health, safety, the environment, and security.
Malaysia’s collaborative goal is to develop resilient governance models that will enable us to embrace and shape transformative technologies. Through this endeavour, Malaysia aims to create abundant opportunities and pave the way for the future of technological innovation.
Aligned with the theme of IRC 2024: Aligning Innovation with Safety for a Sustainable Future, we will discuss the commonalities of the technologies available to us. However, it is equally critical to delve into the intricacies of the safety aspect itself, he said.
“Malaysia’s unique position as a culturally rich and inclusive nation, with a population representing diverse ethnicities and backgrounds, greatly enhances our understanding of various online safety needs.
“Additionally, Malaysia’s skilled workforce, with a considerable portion being multilingual, further strengthens our communication capabilities and operational efficiency, making Malaysia an attractive hub for foreign businesses.”
In line with the efforts of the Malaysian government to drive innovation and harness technological expertise, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has convened a diverse group of experts, including regulators, policymakers, and ASEAN delegates.
“The Malaysian government is dedicated to fostering a secure digital environment for all citizens. We have introduced the Cybersecurity Bill 2024, a legislative measure aimed at strengthening our national cybersecurity framework. This bill is a cornerstone of our efforts to safeguard our digital borders and protect our citizens from emerging cyber threats.
“We are also in the final stages of finalising the regulatory framework for online services platforms, particularly social media and Internet messaging providers. Once regulated, these platforms will be required to observe Malaysian laws and are expected to adhere to certain conduct requirements. These include the requirement to protect young individuals by proposing a restriction on social media usage for those under 13. This measure aims to mitigate the potential harms associated with early social media exposure,” he added.
At the same time, the Malaysian government is actively drafting the laws to address online safety including online scams and fraud, sexual related offences and hate speech. Additionally, Malaysia is leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance online safety through the development of an AI Portal. This platform will use AI to detect and address online threats, verify information, and combat fraud and defamation, contributing to a safer digital environment.
These efforts are part of Malaysia’s comprehensive strategy to tackle the digital age’s challenges, demonstrating the country’s commitment to ensuring a secure and safe online space inclusive for all.
Fahmi explained the telecommunications industry is continually evolving, driven by technological advances and changes in consumer behaviour. “This transformation necessitates a corresponding evolution in the regulatory landscape that governs the sector. Looking to 2024, we anticipate a significant wave of regulatory changes designed to reflect these technological and societal shifts. Adapting to these changes will be crucial for industry players to maintain ethical and responsible business practices.
The conference today exhibited an impressive lineup of telecom and industry players working together to address the most pressing regulatory challenges and promote innovations in connectivity and digital services.
Fahmi cited there are several important trends shaping the future of communications and multimedia regulation are embedded in the subthemes of the IRC, which in summary are:
a. Theme 1: Harmony of Trust: Safeguarding Online Safety and User Privacy
The keynote speaker from Ofcom will explore the UK’s strategies for enhancing online safety through the Online Safety Act, emphasising the need for collective efforts to address online harms and harmful content.
b. Theme 2: Empowering Online Markets in ASEAN: Navigating the New Era of E-Commerce
This panel brings together distinguished ASEAN regulators who will share their invaluable experiences with implementing new policies and regulations within their respective regions.
c. Theme 3: Charting the Future: Catalysing Breakthroughs in Emerging Technologies
In this discussion, the focus will be on critical areas of emerging technologies such as AI and block chain. The discussions will look into setting standards, bolstering security, and ensuring interoperability, to foster the growth of these essential interconnected ecosystems.
d. Theme 4: Establishing Collaborations: Championing Inclusive Connectivity for all by Closing the Divide
This discussion highlights the key concern for regulators in bridging the digital divide and the paramount importance of ensuring universal access to affordable and reliable telecommunications services, with a focus on expanding connectivity to underserved and rural communities to foster greater digital inclusion.
Input from regulators and subject matter experts at this conference will be vital to ensure that the communication and multimedia sector continues to thrive and shape a future where the digital ecosystem remains a driving force for connectivity and innovation.
