PETALING JAYA, Aug 23 — The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), in collaboration with the Selangor government, plans to expand its filtered internet service to public premises and private higher learning institutions (IPTS).
State executive councillor for Islam and innovation Dr Fahmi Ngah said the move followed the success of a pilot project at mosques in the state to curb the spread of negative content.
He said content filtering is important to ensure digital access is not misused during important activities such as prayers and learning sessions.
“If we install a filtering system at mosques to prevent children from playing online games during prayer times, the same approach will be extended to IPTS and related public residences,” he told reporters after officiating the Petaling Jaya Safe Internet Campaign Community Carnival in Kampung Lindungan here today.
On cyber threats, Fahmi said 35,073 online scams were recorded as of June, involving losses of RM951.7 million, with investment scams accounting for RM413.8 million.
“Losses amounting to nearly RM1 billion involve people’s life savings. Therefore, the public needs to practise the concept of ‘tabayyun’ or careful verification through the principles of ‘Check Before Clicking, Think Before Sharing’,” he said.
He also proposed that authorities use artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically screen keywords or fake accounts to combat cyberbullying and extreme content without waiting for public complaints.
Earlier, the carnival organised by MCMC attracted more than 300 visitors and featured various interactive activities, including aerobics, a Mobile Legends e-sports competition, and cybersecurity awareness briefings.
Visitor Nor Syuhadah Maznan, 28, said the combination of talent-based activities and cyber advocacy made digital safety messages more relaxed and easier for the community to understand.
“The government’s efforts should continue for the safety of the younger generation, as online content today often crosses boundaries unintentionally,” she said.
