Technology is rapidly transforming Malaysia through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G, driving digital transformation initiatives such as MyDIGITAL and the AI Roadmap. These advancements aim to boost productivity, innovation and inclusivity while tackling misinformation and cybersecurity challenges. Professor Dr. Mohamad Salmi bin Mohd Sohod’s expertise in strategic management, entrepreneurship, and policy is crucial in navigating this landscape. His research and insights are essential for bridging the digital divide, fostering public trust, and combating misinformation in the AI era. In this edition, myForesight® is honoured to feature his perspectives on how Malaysia can navigate the evolving intersection of technology, culture and policymaking to ensure effective communications and public trust.
Communicating the Government Policies
In a multicultural society like Malaysia, effectively communicating government policies and regulations to diverse groups presents a significant challenge. The convergence of traditional and digital media, coupled with the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, further complicates this process, as witnessed during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period.
To address the challenges of ensuring accurate information reaches the public, the Malaysian government has implemented strategic initiatives focusing on regulation, awareness, and collaboration. Regulatory measures include amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 1998) and licensing of Internet messaging and social media services to enhance governance and content safety in the digital space.
On the awareness front, the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Commission launched the “Jelajah Kempen Keselamatan Dalam Talian” on January 21, 2025, at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. This campaign aims to raise public awareness about online safety and prevent victimisation from online harms through nationwide activities targeting schools, universities, and the general public, on the Internet. These efforts reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a safer digital environment for all Malaysians.
The “Jelajah Kempen Keselamatan Dalam Talian” is a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting online safety and preventing harm among Internet users, including 10,000 primary and secondary schools as well as public higher learning institutions by the end of 2025. Key activities under this campaign include online safety programmes through the “Klik Dengan Bijak initiative”, awareness efforts in schools led by teacher volunteers under the Malaysia ICT Volunteer programme, and media engagement through interviews and articles in mainstream and online platforms to disseminate key messages. Additionally, targeted campaigns utilising television, radio, digital media and public service announcements, amplify the campaign’s reach, ensuring comprehensive public awareness about safe and responsible Internet use.
Recognising the importance of collaboration in effective communication, the Malaysian government actively engages with multiple stakeholders, including NGOs, state governments, enforcement agencies such as the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and academics, to enhance outreach efforts. Notable initiatives include the Sebenarnya.my portal, which serves as a reliable platform for verifying information authenticity and combating misinformation with its tagline “Tidak Pasti, Jangan Kongsi” (If Unsure, Don’t Share). Managed by a collaborative working group of government agencies, the portal validates information before dissemination and allows public submissions for verification.
Additionally, the National Online Safety Framework (NOSF), currently under development, aims to provide coordinated measures among government bodies, regulators and civil society to comprehensively address harmful content. To bridge the gap between policy and public understanding, the government employs a multi-channel communication strategy that includes owned media microsites for credible resources, traditional media interviews and investigative reports, targeted campaigns on social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, on-ground engagements such as roadshows and workshops, and outdoor advertising through LED billboards and public transport campaigns.
On an international level, Malaysia has hosted two International Regulatory Conferences (IRC) to advance global discussions on content safety and establish best practices.
By integrating regulatory frameworks, public awareness initiatives, and multi-stakeholder collaboration, these efforts foster a more informed and resilient digital society where government policies are effectively communicated, understood, and trusted by the public.
Closing the Gap through Technology
The rise of digital platforms has transformed communications across sectors, including how governments engage with the public. Leveraging technology effectively, particularly to reach rural and underserved communities, remains a critical priority.
In ensuring no one is left behind, the Malaysian government has prioritised digital connectivity, literacy, and inclusivity as key enablers of a thriving digital society. Through strategic initiatives like the National Digital Network Plan (“Jalinan Digital Negara”, JENDELA), the government has expanded broadband access across the nation, ensuring that even the most remote communities are connected.
Through JENDELA, Malaysia has made significant strides in expanding broadband access nationwide. As of December 31, 2024, over 9.03 million premises have been equipped with high-speed internet access, surpassing the initial target of 9 million for 2025. Median mobile broadband speeds have reached 105.36 Mbps, exceeding the target of 100 Mbps, while internet coverage in populated areas stands at an impressive 98.66%. Additionally, the rollout of 5G now covers 82.4% of populated areas, further strengthening digital connectivity across the country.
However, connectivity alone is not enough; digital literacy is equally critical. The government has adopted a two-tiered approach to address this need. First, through JENDELA, it ensures nationwide network service availability by providing the fundamental infrastructure for connectivity. Second, it empowers communities through access and knowledge via the establishment of 1,099 National Information Distribution Centres (NADI), based on the “1 State Constituency, 1 NADI” policy. These centres serve as essential access points for digital learning, training, and government services.
Each NADI centre focuses on five key pillars: entrepreneurship to help small businesses and rural enterprises digitalise their operations; lifelong learning to provide digital literacy training for all age groups; self-wellbeing to support health and wellness resources; awareness to educate the public about online safety and responsible digital usage; and government initiatives to bridge the gap between policies and local communities by providing access to e-government services. This comprehensive approach ensures that Malaysians are not only connected but also equipped with both the necessary infrastructure and skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Beyond national efforts, collaboration is key. The Ministry works closely with NGOs, state governments, enforcement agencies and academic institutions to promote digital literacy and safety.
The government’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond terrestrial infrastructure. Through satellite connectivity solutions, we are reaching Malaysia’s most remote communities, enabling them to participate in e-commerce, telehealth and online education.
By integrating connectivity, education and strategic partnerships, Malaysia is ensuring that digital transformation extends beyond urban centres to reach every Malaysian, irrespective of their geography or background. As we advance digital connectivity, our goal is clear: Technology must be a tool for empowerment, inclusion and progress – ensuring that no one is left behind.
Overcoming Misinformation
Government policymaking and regulation require a structured deliberation process, ensuring that all perspectives, including those of industry stakeholders, experts and the public – are considered before any decision is made. While real-time feedback may not always directly shape policies and regulations, public engagement remains a critical component of the process.
Key stages of policy development in Malaysia involve a structured and inclusive process to ensure diverse perspectives are considered. It begins with Stakeholder Engagement Sessions, where relevant stakeholders, industry players and advocacy groups provide input before any policy or regulation is introduced. This is followed by the publication of White Papers, which invite feedback through public consultation and public inquiry processes, allowing consumer associations and the public to deliberate on proposed policies. Finally, after incorporating feedback, policies are refined and presented to the Cabinet and Parliament for deliberation, where they are reviewed and approved. This systematic approach ensures transparency, inclusivity and alignment with national priorities.
Technology plays a transformative role in capturing public concerns and addressing service demands, as demonstrated by initiatives like the JENDELA Map and the MySejahtera app. The JENDELA Map serves as a crowdsourcing platform where citizens can report network coverage issues, enabling the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to gather feedback that directly influences improvements in broadband infrastructure. Similarly, the MySejahtera app, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcased Malaysia’s ability to leverage technology for real-time citizen engagement by providing health-related services and updates. These tools exemplify how digital platforms can bridge the gap between public needs and government action, fostering a more responsive and connected society.
By combining structured engagement sessions, digital crowdsourcing platforms, and institutional representation, Malaysia ensures that public voices are heard and meaningfully incorporated into policy decisions. These efforts foster transparency, inclusivity and trust in governance.
Misinformation is generally not an inherent characteristic of AI systems, as they rely on accurate datasets. However, misleading information can occur when data is taken out of context. Transparency in AI outputs and media literacy programmes can help users critically evaluate information, reducing the spread of misinformation.
By integrating regulatory measures, public engagement strategies, and technological advancements, Malaysia is fostering a digitally literate and well-informed society, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for empowerment and inclusivity.
Prof. Dr. Mohamad Salmi Bin Mohd Sohod
Commission Member of the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission
