In a time where misinformation spreads faster than ever, Malaysia's Ministry of Communications is stepping up its efforts to keep the internet a safer space. Through its enforcement arm, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), over 40,000 misleading and fraudulent content items were successfully removed from online platforms between January and 15 April 2025.

Out of this, 10,493 pieces were identified as fake content, while a staggering 30,427 were classified as scam-related. These numbers aren't just statistics—they reflect the scale of deception that's circulating daily across digital platforms.

Don't Believe Everything You Read Online

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasized the importance of digital responsibility among Malaysians. Speaking at the 2025 "Let's Read Together" programme, she reminded the public that while it's common to receive information through social media, websites, or messaging apps, not all of it can—or should—be trusted.

"Consuming and accepting information online requires today's society to be more digitally literate," she said. "We must develop the habit of questioning what we read, verifying the source, and not blindly sharing content without checking its authenticity."

Her comments point to a growing concern in the digital age: the public's tendency to accept online content at face value, which makes it easier for fake news and scams to thrive.

Enter the Safe Internet Campaign

To tackle this issue at its root, the government is rolling out a Safe Internet Campaign, aimed at educating younger Malaysians about responsible internet usage. This initiative targets primary and secondary school students, along with undergraduates in public universities.

The campaign isn't just about raising awareness—it's about equipping the next generation with the tools they need to stay safe online. Topics covered include verifying information, identifying scams, avoiding online predators, and understanding the consequences of misinformation.

As of 1 May 2025, the campaign has already been introduced in nine schools, with plans to expand across the country by the end of the year. The goal is to create a digitally savvy generation that can navigate the web with critical thinking and caution.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

From deepfakes to phishing scams, digital threats are getting more sophisticated. And while enforcement actions like those by the MCMC are crucial, public awareness and digital education remain our best line of defense.

This isn't just about blocking content; it's about shaping behavior. A safe online environment starts with users who can tell the difference between facts and fiction, genuine content and malicious traps.

Final Thoughts

Malaysia's proactive stance on removing fake and scam content—and the launch of the Safe Internet Campaign—signals a clear commitment to digital well-being. But it also serves as a reminder: staying safe online isn't just the government's job. It starts with each of us being more mindful about what we read, believe, and share.