PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has requested an official explanation from TikTok on its monitoring and enforcement mechanisms for content or advertisements suspected of being used in criminal activities.
This comes after media reports alleging that the platform was being used to recruit individuals to smuggle drugs overseas from Malaysia.
In a statement today, MCMC says it is taking the matter seriously and has sought clarification from TikTok regarding the issue.
It also seeks an explanation for fake job offers disseminated through the platform that may deceive users.
The statement further says that such misuse of an online platform to recruit or deceive users into criminal activities through the spreading of false content is a serious offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).
Section 263(1) of the same Act states that all licensed social media provider must take reasonable steps to ensure their networks or services are not used for unlawful purposes in Malaysia.
MCMC advises the public to remain cautious of suspicious job offers circulating on social media, especially those involving the delivery of packages or luggage overseas, which are common tactics used to lure victims into becoming “drug mules”.
It further says that it will continue working closely with enforcement authorities such as the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) to strengthen monitoring efforts and raise public awareness of the risks involved in misusing social media for international criminal activity.
