Anwar, who is on his first official visit to Latin America since assuming office in November 2022, met with a delegation from TikTok, led by its CEO Chew Shou Zi, here yesterday.

“During the meeting, I raised several matters, including the implementation of a regulatory framework to license social media and internet messaging services starting from Jan 1.

“I also touched on issues such as cyberbullying, scams, and the culture of defamation in Malaysia, which has been rampant on TikTok.

“We also discussed the collaboration between the government and TikTok in Malaysia, and they have confirmed plans to continue making substantial investments,” Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said.

He said TikTok also expressed its commitment to supporting Malaysia’s efforts as the chair of Asean in 2025.

Boosting ties with Global South

In his opening remarks during a roundtable with captains of industry from Malaysia and Peru yesterday, Anwar stressed the importance of strengthening ties with the Global South, highlighting the vast untapped potential and emerging opportunities in this region.

“It’s crucial to shift course slightly and enhance collaboration with the Global South, tapping into the vast new potentials and opportunities,” he said.

He said that historically, the focus has been on a narrow set of partners, but the changing global dynamics present a compelling case for broadening the horizons and diversifying alliances.

He reiterated that while the US remains Malaysia’s top investor, Putrajaya also has strong trading partnerships with China, “and we are collaborating effectively in multiple areas. That is the way forward”.

Alwar will also take part in the Apec Economic Leaders Week in Lima.