Malaysia Targets Online Gambling in Proposed Cybercrime Law Amendments

Malaysia aims to toughen up its cybercrime laws by making big changes to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA). This move comes as the government tries to handle the rise in online crimes such as illegal betting, scams, and other damaging digital acts.

Amendment Bill Introduced to Strengthen MCMC’s Authority

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil put forward the amendment bill to Parliament this week kicking off the first big update to the 26-year-old law. The suggested changes aim to boost the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) power to regulate and enforce. The main focus is to crack down on online gambling, which has turned into an ongoing problem in the country causing the government to lose about MYR2 billion ($451.8 million) in taxes each year.

The changes would give the MCMC more power, including the ability to audit, set required industry rules, and watch over network safety risks. The proposal also aims to make punishments for breaking the rules much tougher. As an example, fines for misusing the internet under Section 233 of the CMA might go up by ten times, with jail time going up to two years. However, some people worry that these new powers do not have enough limits, which could lead to going too far and potential misuse.

Online gambling has become a big concern, with websites finding ways around rules to reach Malaysian players. The government wants to stop illegal operators by making punishments tougher and monitoring social media and chat apps more. These websites would need to give user information and help keep an eye on things for online gambling or scam cases.

Civil Society Voices Concerns Over New Rules Amidst Fears for Free Speech

However, the new rules have upset civil society groups and people who support free media. Those against it say the changes could hurt free speech and make it harder to hold people accountable. Dr. Benjamin Loh, a senior lecturer in media and communication at Taylor’s University, called the changes worrying, as reported by Channel News Asia. He thinks they might give the government too much control over online platforms and people’s private information.

Fahmi Fadzil has told the public that the government wants to hear from stakeholders and is aiming to strike a balance. But people still wonder about the wide-ranging powers the MCMC would get, including protection from legal action for things done “in good faith.”

The government stands by the changes pointing out the money and social damage caused by online crimes. From 2020 to 2023, scams on the internet cost Malaysians RM3.2 billion ($722.88 million), with illegal betting making things worse.