MCMC ordered to meet platform over 'piu-piu' online drug sales

The Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) of Malaysia has been mandated to convene an e-commerce platform allegedly used for illicit online drug sales, particularly those involving fentanyl and a substance called 'piu-piu'. This directive comes in response to mounting apprehension surrounding the sale of narcotics, including fentanyl and 'piu-piu', predominantly among the younger demographic.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has voiced his concern over this trend. He has directed the MCMC to meet with one of the platforms suspected of exploiting its network to facilitate the sale of drugs such as fentanyl and 'piu-piu' on Malaysia's online marketplace.

The MCMC's chairman and his team are expected to approach this situation with impartiality and firmness, as indicated by the Minister during the opening of a strategic cooperation workshop held at the National Information Dissemination Centres (Nadi) and rural community centres. The workshop also saw the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang, and MCMC chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din.

Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasized that while the expansion of internet access, including in rural areas, is critical, it must be balanced with measures to ensure these communications networks remain secure and are used responsibly. He warned that if these networks are not secure and users lack the requisite knowledge and skills to protect themselves, they could be exploited for the sale and distribution of drugs across various locations.