MCMC, Selangor to expand filtered internet service to public premises and private institutions, says exco

Selangor's government and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) are set to widen their filtered internet service to public spaces and private higher education institutions, according to state Islamic Affairs and Innovation Culture Committee chairman Dr. Mohammad Fahmi Ngah. This expansion stems from the success of a pilot project in mosques aimed at curbing the dissemination of harmful content.

Dr. Fahmi emphasized the necessity of content filtering to prevent the misuse of digital resources during critical events such as prayers and educational sessions.

"If we implement filtering systems in mosques to prevent children from engaging in online gaming during prayer times, the same approach will be applied to IPTS and related public residences," he stated during the Petaling Jaya District Safe Internet Campaign Community Carnival 2026 held at Kampung Lindungan.

In addressing cyber threats, Dr. Fahmi disclosed that 35,073 online scam cases were reported as of June, resulting in RM951.7 million in losses, with investment scams accounting for RM413.8 million. He urged the public to practice "tabayyun," which translates to careful verification, through principles such as "Check Before Clicking, Think Before Sharing."

To combat cyberbullying and extreme content, Dr. Fahmi suggested the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically screen keywords or fake accounts, eliminating the need for public complaints.

The carnival, organized by MCMC, drew over 300 attendees and featured activities like aerobics, a Mobile Legends e-sports competition, and cybersecurity awareness briefings. Visitor Nor Syuhadah Maznan, 28, appreciated the blend of entertainment and cyber advocacy, stating that the relaxed digital safety messages would be more relatable to the community. She highlighted the importance of continued government efforts to safeguard the younger generation, noting that online content often inadvertently crosses boundaries.