In a statement, he called it a “timely and necessary step” and said MPs from both sides of the political divide have consistently called for tighter online controls.

“These platforms have failed to effectively address the escalating issues of scams, online gambling, and cyberbullying.

“The alarming rise in these online threats has created an unsafe digital environment for all users, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly,” Khoo said, adding that the presence of minors on social media platforms is a pressing concern.

He said that while these platforms impose a minimum age restriction of 13 and above, there are so many children who are below 13 actively using these platforms.

“This exposes them to significant risks including online scams, cyberattacks, and abuse. The potential for emotional, psychological, and privacy-related harm is immense.

“The recent tragic death of an influencer due to cyberbullying underscores the urgent need for stronger regulations,” he said.

Khoo said it was also not true that MCMC had the power to remove content on social media, adding that the agency could only submit a request to the relevant platforms.

He said even when requests were made by MCMC to remove some content, there was a poor compliance rate by the companies behind these platforms.

“Simply put, these platforms do not respond to MCMC. Hence, strengthening our regulatory framework by requiring social media platforms to be licensed is a much-needed action.

At this moment, online spaces are not safe for Malaysians, he said.

“By imposing stricter regulations, we can better protect our citizens, especially children and vulnerable individuals, from the harms of the digital world,” he said.