Last week, it was reported that TikTok had initiated a massive layoff to reduce its global headcount, which included the staff in Malaysia. While no exact figure was disclosed at the time, the company has now confirmed the number with communications minister Fahmi Fadzil, revealing that the figure is lower than what was initially speculated.
While some claimed that the layoff involved over 700 staff members in Malaysia, Fahmi stated that during a meeting with the social media firm, it informed the government that the cut affected exactly 481 workers. While the company apparently still retains a high number of employees in the country, standing at around 3,700 people, it should be noted that it is reportedly planning more retrenchments next month to consolidate some of its regional operations.
The minister also mentioned that TikTok will open several new positions as it will be expanding its services, including cloud computing and data centres. The platform also assured the government that the reduced headcount in the moderation team will not negatively impact in operations in Malaysia or its cooperation with the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and the Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
The decision for the layoff was made due to the company’s increasing use of AI for content moderation, with a spokesperson noting that 80% of violative content is currently removed through automated technologies. However, Fahmi said that he requested TikTok to add manual moderators for content or late-night live sessions in Chinese and Tamil to address the issue of cyber-bullying.
(Source: Bernama)
