The government has no immediate plans to develop a social media application specifically for Malaysians, says communications minister Fahmi Fadzil. He elaborates that creating one would be too costly, and pressing issues such as dilapidated schools and clinics are prioritised instead.
During the weekend, Fahmi revealed that Putrajaya was considering a proposal to develop a social media platform for Malaysians. He said this consideration arises from concerns over the profit-driven motives of existing platforms and their inadequate measures to ensure user safety in the country.
While no longer an immediate plan, the comms minister is encouraging private companies in Malaysia to develop their own homegrown social media platforms. He adds that the government would not prohibit them from doing so.
“However, if any private companies in Malaysia wish to develop these platforms, we won’t stop them,” he said after attending the ministry’s monthly assembly today. “They can contact Mosti (Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry) or MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation) for assistance.”
(Source: Malaysiakini)
