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The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched a public consultation to gather feedback on its proposed new regulatory framework
The framework covers how communication data is retained and accessed in Malaysia, including call logs, text messages, IP addresses, and Internet usage metadata.
The consultation period runs from 25 July to 8 August, and is open to members of the public, industry players, and experts.
This move follows recent amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, introducing Sections 252A, 252B, and 268A, which form the legal foundation for the new rules.
Here are a few key features of the proposed regulatory framework:
- Law enforcement agencies can only access this data through proper legal procedures.
- Any access must follow strict principles of necessity, proportionality, and legality.
- The data may be used in criminal investigations involving serious offences like cybercrime, online scams, terrorism, and other digital threats.
The data in question may be used in criminal investigations involving serious offences such as cybercrime, online scams, terrorism, and other digital threats.
"Having a clear legal framework is vital to ensure that communication data used in criminal investigations is handled responsibly and transparently," said crime analyst Datuk Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim
Shahul said the framework would help address legal uncertainties and reduce the risk of privacy breaches, especially in sensitive or high-profile cases.
He also stressed that the proposed rules would improve operational efficiency by giving enforcement agencies lawful access to digital evidence without compromising public trust.
"A strong framework will help standardise how communication data is stored and accessed, giving enforcement agencies quicker and lawful access to digital evidence," he said.
"This is crucial in today's digital landscape, where crimes like online scams, cyberbullying, and identity theft are becoming more sophisticated. It provides clarity, consistency, and speed — while ensuring accountability."
When asked about concerns around personal privacy, Shahul said it's about finding the right balance
"We need to protect the country from digital threats — but not at the expense of personal freedoms. Any data access must be targeted, justified, and supervised."
He encouraged Malaysians to participate in the consultation process.
"By inviting feedback from experts, industry players, and the general public, MCMC shows it values transparency and collaboration. That builds public trust in the process," said Shahul.
