MCMC Faces Tougher Calls on Online Harassment Takedowns

Malaysia faces a 135-fold spike in cyberbullying cases, highlighting content removal hurdles and the need for mental support.

Cyberbullying Reports is drawing attention in Malaysia as Cyberbullying Reports is a central concern as Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching says takedown requests involving online harassment face a more complex test than clearer-cut offences such as fraud.

Cyberbullying illustration
Cyberbullying illustration

Teo said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission can refer complaints to social platforms, but content involving bullying or harassment is often less straightforward to assess. Recent removal success rates for such cases were described as roughly 65% to 75%.

The complaint trend has risen from 290 cases in 2022 to 2,704 in 2023, then 11,385 in 2024 and 39,225 in 2025. As of May 1 this year, 5,686 complaints had already been recorded.

She stressed that official figures may not capture everyone affected, as some people do not seek help or report the content they face online.

Speaking at a Malaysia Lifeline Association event, she highlighted the role of support channels such as the 15995 counselling hotline, saying timely help remains important for people under emotional pressure.

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