PETALING JAYA: Regulating digital platforms will ensure a level playing field for the media and advertising industry, say players.

The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) in a statement said the move will be able to address the disparities faced between the digital and traditional media.

“It reflects a commitment to ensuring that all players – regardless of platform – are held to fair and transparent regulations, a crucial move for creating an industry that meaningfully contributes to the nation’s economy, societal growth and digital safety,” it said yesterday.

Content Forum said digital platforms, which include social media and instant messaging services, are unregulated, posing challenges to the local industry.

“Malaysia’s media and advertising industries play a vital role in shaping the economy, supporting nation-building efforts and fostering a safe digital ecosystem.

“However, an uneven playing field between licensed, regulated entities and unlicensed, unregulated digital platforms has created challenges that threaten these objectives,” said the forum.

Content Forum chief executive officer Mediha Mahmood said collaboration is key to building a balanced and inclusive digital ecosystem.

“As the government builds essential frameworks, Content Forum is dedicated to supporting these efforts through self-regulation, involving industry stakeholders and consumers alike.

“We encourage digital platforms to collaborate in these initiatives as their involvement helps align our content policies with international best practices, ensures compliance with Malaysia’s laws and upholds the unique needs of our community,” she said.

Star Media Group chief business officer Lydia Wang, who is also one of Content Forum members, said it is important for both digital and traditional media to be held to the same standards of ethical conduct and accountability.

“Licensed players invest in adhering to robust regulations, ensuring transparency and accountability. However, unregulated platforms operate without the same level of oversight, creating an uneven playing field.

“For a truly competitive and responsible advertising ecosystem, it’s essential that all platforms, digital or traditional, are held to the same standards of ethical conduct and accountability,” she said in the same statement.Malaysian Advertisers Association president Claudian Navin Stanislaus echoed the same sentiment, saying that there is a need for a uniform set of standards that are practical and applicable to safeguard Malaysian audiences.

“For regulations to succeed, action must match intent – be transparent, thoughtful and resistant to misinterpretation or misuse!

“Effective regulation should inspire progress, not stifle it, shaping a content ecosystem that benefits all while upholding fairness and freedom,” said Stanislaus, who is also Content Forum vice-chairman.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/20/regulating-digital-platforms-will-ensure-level-playing-field