THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been asked not to proceed with the plan to require all internet service providers (ISPs) to use public domain name service (DNS) redirection.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the decision was made after considering the feedback received through a series of engagements MCMC conducted with the general public.

In a post on X, he confirmed that he has asked the MCMC to discontinue the implementation, which was supposed to apply to businesses, enterprises, and governments by the end of this month.

However, he said MCMC would continue to engage with all stakeholders to gather their feedback and suggestions to achieve the shared objective of a safer internet.

“The government will not compromise on this matter, to ensure online safety for Malaysians, especially children and families.

“The issue of online crimes, including access to websites related to gambling, prostitution, and pornography, is very concerning and requires comprehensive solutions,” he said.

Last month, the MCMC said the commission would collaborate with service providers on several preventive measures, including managing DNS, to ensure restrictions to harmful or prohibited websites remain in place.

The regulatory body said from January 1, 2022, to August 1 this year, a total of 10,423 websites were blocked due to violations of the law. – September 8, 2024