It comes as the government is accused of seeking to expand offences that would constitute general criticism as part of misusing network facilities.

The Online Safety Bill gives MCMC and the communications ministry far-reaching powers to block content under the pretext of protecting internet users from harm.

In an open letter to Anwar Ibrahim, they say the plan only imposes undue burdens on the industry.

This is a government which is increasingly intolerant of criticism, and surely it cannot be given the power to license social media platforms.

Rights lawyers say it is Pakatan Harapan's ultimate betrayal of its reform promises after benefiting from social media's freedom for so long.

In 2023, Malaysia embarrassingly became world champion with 2,202 takedown requests made to TikTok.

Prime minister is again urged to stop hiding behind the royal institution to crack down on critics.

Malaysia ranked behind Thailand, scores poorly in the latest press freedom index which rates 180 countries.

The internet authority reminded that it is not a private entity but a publicly funded government body.

It is the latest in a series of restrictions on the media by the authorities.

There has been an uptick in restrictions of TikTok clips critical of government policies under Anwar Ibrahim's administration.

It says the headlines were 'disrespectful' while criticising the news reports as not reflective of 'the true context'.