KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 4 — The government is considering a proposal for a social media app for Malaysians, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
He said this is as some social media platform providers have been profiting off Malaysians but fail to ensure user safety.
“Last year, it was estimated Facebook alone earned US$600 million (RM2.7 billion) from Malaysia, but what have they done to ensure the condition and use of their platform in Malaysia are safe?
“They lack commitment, so we need to study and assess the situation. It is not easy to develop our own social media platform, but some countries have attempted it. We will look into it,” he told reporters at the “Himpunan Pembebasan Palestin” rally here tonight.
Fahmi said he has met with celebrity host Datuk Aznil Nawawi, who came up with the proposal following Facebook and Instagram parent Meta’s recent action of removing social media posts about Palestine.
During the meeting, he shared his views on social media usage that should be communicated to Aznil’s followers.
“I reminded him that children under 13 should not use social media, and he agreed to convey this message to his fans,” he said.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said he will meet with Meta tomorrow in Putrajaya to discuss its removal of Palestine-related content from the prime minister’s social media accounts.
He said the ministry will ensure Meta does not remove any content of tonight’s rally.
“It has agreed to do so. I have provided a list of not only the prime minister’s Facebook account, but also the official accounts of several media outlets. We will see whether itl follows through, but I believe it will keep its promise,” he said, adding that the ministry will insist Meta fulfil its pledge.
— Bernama
