by HIDAYATH HISHAM

THE government will not proceed with its plan to implement Domain Name System (DNS) redirection.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil (picture) said the decision comes after extensive public consultations and feedback from cyber security experts, tech developers and programmers over the past six months.

“We have no intention of continuing with DNS redirection,” he said at a press conference on Sept 11.

He added that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been engaging stakeholders during this period to gather a wide range of views.

Fahmi assured that while DNS redirection is off the table, the government remains committed to improving online safety without compromising on cyber security.

Instead, more sustainable and effective measures will be introduced to ensure safer Internet access for all, particularly children and families.

The minister mentioned the importance of tackling online threats, which are becoming increasingly prevalent not only on social media but across the wider web.

MCMC will continue to explore additional steps to address online security concerns, and the engagement sessions will remain an ongoing process.

“The engagement process will continue. It is not a one-time effort, and it has been going on for the past six months,” he added.

Fahmi also addressed the issue of underage children accessing social media, pointing out that although most platforms have age restrictions, these policies are not being effectively enforced.

“Social media platforms set age limits, preventing children under 13 from opening accounts, but in reality, children as young as six or seven are using these platforms,” he said.

There needs to be stricter measures, including licensing, to compel social media platforms to take more responsibility.

“We hope that the licensing process will push platforms to be more serious in their efforts to reduce and ultimately prevent children, especially those under 13, from using social media,” he said.

Fahmi acknowledged that the issue lies in enforcement rather than policy and mentioned that Malaysia is exploring solutions implemented by other countries, such as Australia, to address similar concerns.

A meeting with social media platforms was held in September, though the full results from the session are still pending.

However, he believes that the platforms understand the government’s priorities.

“I believe they understood our aims and the importance of tackling online crimes and ensuring a safer Internet for children and families,” he said.

Previously, the government’s decision to forgo DNS redirection comes as cybercrimes continue to rise, with much of the criminal activity happening on social media.

Fahmi reaffirmed that the MCMC will continue its efforts to find long-term solutions to enhance cyber security in Malaysia.