He said TikTok’s top leadership acknowledged the platform’s weaknesses and attributed them to the lack of representatives in Malaysia at this time.

“During the discussion, I emphasised that TikTok must operate in accordance with the guidelines and laws of Malaysia,” Fahmi said in a statement today.

He said the meeting was for the ministry to seek clarification with TikTok regarding several issues, including the spread of fake news on the platform and the operation of TikTok Shop.

“I also pointed out the need for TikTok to find solutions to issues related to ad purchases and content distribution on the platform,” Fahmi said, adding that there were complaints from business and media agencies who claimed to be “severely affected” by its ad placements.

Those present at the meeting included TikTok’s global vice-president, Helena Lersch.

Last week, Fahmi said the government will examine the move by the Indonesian government to ban e-commerce transactions on TikTok before devising appropriate measures in this country.

He said several large stores had raised issues related to price competition for products sold through the platform.