Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

Palestine

israel

Starbucks

conflict

boycott

Berjajya Food

suffering

effectiveness

In the reverberations of Edwin Starr's powerful anthem, "War, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing," a sentiment that echoed through the ages.
When Israel initiated an assault on Gaza, Palestine, last year, a global movement took root. People worldwide, including netizens in Malaysia, began actively participating in a resolute boycott against brands and products associated with or supporting Israel.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/561c8c146a5f4d8f508a8d2a64f640e48940af0393b0e8529d474b0754998550" />
Since the harrowing events of October 27, 2023, reports indicate a devastating toll, with the death count of Palestinians soaring to 29,313. Unfortunately, the attacks show no signs of abating. Despite the International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearing, where South Africa passionately appealed for an end to the assaults on Palestine, labelling it as genocide, Israel appears to have disregarded the order to cease acts of genocide against Palestinians. Shockingly, the attacks persisted, further unfolding in the southern city of Rafah. All this transpired as the world's attention was captivated by one of America's most significant sporting events, Super Bowl LVIII.
Boycott Calls Proven To Be Effective
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/8feb5df6644526df892fc66059f18f61cb980c107e9f22eb218e2544b98c5cd7" />
Lately, Berjaya Food Berhad, the umbrella organization overseeing Starbucks Malaysia, has navigated through a financially demanding phase, disclosing a revenue of RM182.55 million and a net loss of RM42.58 million for the quarter concluding on December 31, 2023. This downturn represents a significant departure from its achievements during the same period the previous year when it reported revenue of RM295.32 million and a pre-tax profit of RM52.06 million.
As per Berjaya Food's quarterly report concluding on December 31, 2023, the decline in revenue was predominantly attributed to the boycott spurred by the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel in the Middle East. They indicate that the pre-tax loss incurred in this quarter is presently under evaluation and was primarily a result of diminished sales and a one-off loss arising from the divestment of the Group&rsquo;s complete equity interests in Jollibean Foods Pte Ltd.
Still Remaining Optimistic About Operating Performance
In the face of existing financial challenges, the board of directors at Berjaya Food remains sanguine about the prospects of its operations. Excluding the extraordinary investment-related expenses, the pre-tax loss, if considered, would have been RM29.31 million, underscoring the considerable financial impact extending beyond the ramifications of the boycott.
For the six months concluding on December 31, 2023, Berjaya Food posted a revenue of RM461.09 million and a pre-tax loss of RM11.49 million. This presents a marked contrast to the figures from the previous year, which reported RM578.37 million in revenue and RM102.09 million in pre-tax profit.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e8655b64469957d0a2ef8858c9f3f48a5eeaaaabc7dfe4690f8d38c5c0600f7d" />
The board of directors expresses confidence that the group's operational performance will witness a resurgence in the forthcoming quarters of the financial year concluding on June 30, 2024. They anticipate a rebound and a regained momentum, attributing the current situation to a short-term setback, with expectations for progressive and positive developments moving forward.
Read the full report <a href="https://disclosure.bursamalaysia.com/FileAccess/apbursaweb/download?id=226622&amp;name=EA_FR_ATTACHMENTS">here</a>.
While the directors' optimism is encouraging, the ongoing boycott and the complexities of the conflict between Palestine and Israel pose significant challenges for recovery, especially as consumers explore alternative, more cost-effective coffee options. The impact of the war on businesses affiliated with Israel remains uncertain, but our primary concern should be for the well-being of the Palestinians. Let's continue to keep them in our thoughts and hope for a swift resolution to the conflict.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/eacffb8153b97270ecef419c7b9441a67db67a349ff0e2d937302564728cc892" />
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, Berjaya Food, The Star &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Directors anticipate a rebound in performance, but the ongoing conflict may pose challenges.

038f4579cfaf96595fdaf7c7fda5339a3b607d21fd4537eda17d5484f123ae09

Boycott Fallout: Berjaya Food Reports RM42 Million Loss Amidst Palestine-Israel Conflict

Since the Madani Government took office, Malaysians have experienced the gradual removal of various subsidies, with the latest being the end of toll-free travel during festive seasons. One thing we&rsquo;ve come to expect from the current administration is its firm stance on decision-making, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim rarely making "u-turns."&nbsp;
However, following public dissatisfaction over the lack of toll-free travel, it seems the government is making one of its first partial reversals on a decision&mdash;offering a compromise instead.
In conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations, highway users nationwide can enjoy a 50% toll discount for a limited period. The discount applies exclusively to Class 1 private vehicles and will be in effect from 12:01 am on 27th January until 11:59 pm on 28th January, covering all highway toll plazas across the country except the Sultan Iskandar Building and Tanjung Kupang toll plazas, which are located at Malaysia's borders.
The Cost of the Discount
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The Works Minister, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, revealed that the initiative would cost the government RM20.08 million in compensation to toll concessionaires. Despite no longer offering toll waivers during festive seasons, the government has committed to providing this discount as part of its ongoing efforts to support highway users during major celebrations.
Since 2023, the government has spent a total of RM356.18 million on festive toll assistance, including free tolls and discounts for major celebrations. However, 2024 marks the final year for such subsidies, as the government seeks a more targeted approach to toll relief.
Targeted Subsidy Plans Underway 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f721418be7a303029dc637dcb284d4ca0228025ce03b6c97ebe44a85cf160c3f" />
Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi reiterated that toll exemptions during festive seasons would no longer be provided. The decision, finalised during a Cabinet meeting on 20th December 2024, aims to transition toward a more targeted subsidy model. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has also hinted at limiting toll exemptions to specific income groups, such as the B40 and M40, as part of the government&rsquo;s broader subsidy reform initiatives.
Further details of the targeted subsidy plan are expected to be announced soon. The shift is projected to save the government RM190 million annually, funds which can be redirected to other critical areas.
Encouraging Safe and Smooth Journeys
In light of the toll discount, Nanta encouraged road users to plan their travels wisely to avoid traffic congestion during the long holiday period. He recommended downloading the MYPLUS-TTA app for real-time travel advisories and adhering to all traffic guidelines for a safe and smooth journey.
Additionally, drivers can access live traffic updates and CCTV footage via the Highway Authority&rsquo;s website or follow their official social media channels, including Facebook, TikTok, and X. For immediate assistance or traffic inquiries, the public can contact the Highway Authority Traffic Management Centre at 1-800-88-7752.
A Final Farewell to Toll Waivers
As the government transitions away from free tolls during festive seasons, the 50% discount for Chinese New Year offers a final gesture of goodwill to road users. While the move to targeted subsidies is anticipated to benefit lower-income groups, this festive discount provides a temporary reprieve for Malaysians travelling to celebrate the Lunar New Year with loved ones.
With road safety in mind, Nanta urged everyone to follow traffic rules and take advantage of the resources available for a safer and more enjoyable journey. "Let&rsquo;s fully embrace the spirit of this Chinese New Year and ensure we all arrive at our destinations safely," he concluded.
This leaves us with a lingering question: while we understand the need to categorise income groups like T20, T15, and M40, at the end of the day, aren&rsquo;t all Malaysians taxpayers? And if so, shouldn&rsquo;t subsidies benefit everyone equally, regardless of income brackets?
That said, we&rsquo;d like to take this moment to wish all Malaysians a very Happy Chinese New Year! May your celebrations be filled with joy, and for those travelling, have a safe and smooth journey back home this festive season.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Looks like the government finally made a U-turn on their decision!

6bab9c5d3a1e7737c4003df23bf4435e5519c5e50957e5c1d25ebfa9ef5dfd96

Government Announces 50% Toll Discount For Chinese New Year 2025 On 27-28 January

For homeowners, managing electricity bills has become increasingly challenging, especially with rising costs. Whether it&rsquo;s a full household or simply trying to stay cool during the scorching weather, keeping energy usage under control can often feel like a daunting task.
However, for one Malaysian shop lot owner, her worst nightmare became a reality when a seemingly straightforward rental agreement turned into a devastating ordeal. The tenant, who rented the upper floor of her property, secretly transformed it into an illegal cryptocurrency mining hub, leaving her with an astonishing RM1.2 million electricity bill and extensive damage to the unit.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bc81fa99260138ea1bd49058beac0475cf077f89ec3b6b60318818c677811e85" />
Yen Pit Yun, the owner of the two-story shop lot in Panorama Lapangan Perdana, Melaka, recounted her ordeal during a press conference organised by Gopeng MP Tan Kar Hing. While the ground floor was occupied by a hair salon, Yen rented out the upper floor in July last year through a property agent. The tenant claimed the unit would be used for storing business goods, and nothing seemed amiss at first.
However, Yen grew suspicious in August when she noticed the tenant hauling heavy electrical cables into the unit. This unusual activity prompted her to lodge a police report, fearing foul play. Before any action could be taken, the tenant disappeared overnight, leaving behind a unit in complete disarray.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1ecc1e054a21c8f4daf3359b7100131043239a6e551017c58e8643f3d5f70757" />
&ldquo;When I went to inspect the property, I was shocked to see the extent of the damage. The walls had holes, the partitions were destroyed, and there were tangled wires everywhere,&rdquo; Yen said. Unfortunately, her problems didn&rsquo;t end there.
Two months later, Yen was blindsided when Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) sent her an electricity bill totalling RM1.2 million, allegedly due to the tenant&rsquo;s electricity usage for their illegal operations. The staggering sum left her in despair. &ldquo;If instalment payments are not allowed, the worst-case scenario would be bankruptcy,&rdquo; she lamented.
A Widespread Issue
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/37e92439de777510fb902c31ef7f6b1365e4e27e50fe0fbe402bec485543eec3" />
Yen&rsquo;s case is not an isolated incident. During the same press conference, Tan Kar Hing revealed that over 60 property owners in areas such as Gopeng, Manjung, and Setiawan have been similarly affected. These landlords have been left with enormous electricity bills ranging from RM30,000 to RM1.2 million, in addition to the extensive property damage caused by illegal cryptocurrency mining.
Among the victims is Mohd Najib Abdul Hadi, a retired army officer whose house in Manjung was used for the same purpose. Najib was left with an electricity bill of RM86,000 and a severely damaged home. Attempts to contact his tenant were unsuccessful, leaving him to shoulder the financial burden.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c3e68d3b38f6b7574b69e34d154b0429c2e1cc0438e99369ab7eea1180fb3035" />
These cases highlight the broader challenges posed by unauthorised cryptocurrency mining operations, which have become a growing concern in Malaysia. The high energy consumption required for mining cryptocurrency often leads to the illegal siphoning of electricity, leaving landlords in distress when the tenants disappear.
Steps Taken by TNB
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/84b2187244536ac4dff9eab73b520eb37ae42dcdd5b946d6c8555d00c6b2ab83" />
In response to the escalating issue, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has pledged to engage with affected property owners to find solutions. In a statement reported by The Star, TNB said it had reached out to Gopeng MP Tan Kar Hing&rsquo;s office to discuss plans for addressing the situation.
One key recommendation from TNB is that property owners submit a Change of Tenancy (COT) request whenever a new tenant occupies their property. This simple step ensures that electricity accounts are transferred to tenants, prevents disputes, and protects landlords from liability.
The company also reminded landlords to monitor their properties closely and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Calls for Policy Reforms
Tan Kar Hing has called on the Energy Commission and other relevant authorities to take decisive action against illegal cryptocurrency mining. He has also stressed the need to amend the Electricity Supply Act to protect innocent property owners better.
The MP also suggested creating a centralised rental database to track high-risk tenants, which would help landlords screen potential renters more effectively. Additionally, he urged landlords to exercise caution by conducting thorough background checks and regularly inspecting their properties.
Lessons for Landlords
The harrowing experiences of Yen, Najib, and many others serve as a stark warning to landlords across Malaysia. Renting out a property may seem like a straightforward process, but it comes with risks, particularly when tenants engage in illegal activities.
Experts recommend that landlords take preventive measures, such as signing detailed rental agreements, performing tenant background checks, and submitting Change of Tenancy requests to TNB. Regular inspections and prompt reporting of unusual activity can also help mitigate risks.
While TNB continues its efforts to resolve the current cases, the incident highlights a systemic issue that requires broader legal and policy changes. For now, landlords must remain vigilant to avoid falling victim to similar schemes, which can have devastating financial consequences.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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With over 60 homeowners affected by similar issues, TNB is now seeking an amicable solution for the innocent victims.

c2a7ef36c8ac239a1bc044c29f4e2c820a53fcbf39a7025836ec0e5954e3e4f9

Landlord Shocked With RM1.2 Million Electricity Bill After Tenant Operates Illegal Crypto Mining

For many, we all know that kids can sometimes be a handful as we know that they are normally full of energy and there are times where if we leave them with little to no supervision, they could end up in a little sticky situation for themselves.
On 17 January, Hayfa, a little girl from Melaka, told her mother, Aqila Nasir, that she was experiencing pain in her left ear. Aqila, like many parents might, assumed it was a minor issue. "I checked her ear with a flashlight but didn&rsquo;t see anything unusual," she explained. Thinking it could be something trivial, like a pimple, Aqila asked her daughter to wait until the next day to see if the pain had subsided.
However, things took a worrying turn the following morning when Hayfa woke up with neck pain and appeared unusually lethargic. Her behaviour raised alarm bells for Aqila, who decided to take another look inside her daughter&rsquo;s ear. This time, she noticed black debris and immediately suspected something more sinister.
A Shocking Discovery at the Clinic
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0eafe31c868d882a9d2b01c163a83ae092967f08dfac25230655daa99788e8d3" />
Realising the potential seriousness of the situation, Aqila and her husband rushed Hayfa to a nearby clinic. Upon examination, the doctor discovered a horrifying sight: multiple ticks and their eggs nestled deep within the little girl&rsquo;s ear canal.
The doctor noted that the ticks had likely been there for some time, but Hayfa hadn&rsquo;t complained until the pain became noticeable. Aqila speculated that her daughter&rsquo;s high pain tolerance may have masked the issue earlier. Her husband had always emphasised that when Hayfa did complain of pain, it was likely to be something serious.
Painful but Necessary Extraction
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7abb63494c1c574cede49040c4d390965c5295d21689d9bd44f6a63ddb25dd4d" />
The doctor immediately began the extraction process, carefully removing the ticks and thoroughly cleaning Hayfa&rsquo;s ear to prevent infection. The procedure was painful, as ticks latch onto the skin tightly, making them difficult to dislodge. Despite the discomfort, Hayfa endured the process bravely, earning praise from her mother.
Aqila later shared a video of the procedure, highlighting her daughter&rsquo;s courage throughout the ordeal.
A Warning to Other Parents
Following the incident, Aqila took to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chikbungacraft/posts/pfbid0EauSesVeetjA67vuKpvhZAUeMMEr4DRhYs2ctVcKfxQcUsW4MmY7ezaBxQYMVXB5l">Facebook</a> to share her story, hoping to raise awareness among other parents. She stressed the importance of taking children&rsquo;s complaints of pain seriously, as they could be indicative of more severe issues.
&ldquo;Pain is often the body&rsquo;s way of signalling that something is wrong,&rdquo; Aqila wrote. &ldquo;If your child complains of discomfort, don&rsquo;t ignore it. It&rsquo;s better to be cautious and seek medical advice early.&rdquo;
Lessons Learned
This distressing experience has underscored the importance of vigilance in parenting. Thanks to her parents&rsquo; quick response after recognising the severity of the situation, Hayfa was able to receive the necessary treatment before the ticks caused further harm.
The incident serves as a stark reminder for all parents to remain attentive to their children&rsquo;s well-being and to trust their instincts when something feels amiss. Sometimes, a simple complaint can uncover a much larger problem waiting to be addressed.
That&rsquo;s certainly a new fear unlocked! For pet owners, here&rsquo;s an important reminder: if you let your furry friends sleep with you at night, make sure they&rsquo;re free of ticks. Regular checks can help prevent situations like this from happening.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A crucial reminder to never dismiss children’s complaints about pain.

49c0090a6dd47c227219d915da528595480c5c25ca1bb1ccb995213dc2065118

Melaka Girl’s Ear Pain Uncovers Shocking Infestation Of Ticks In Ear Canal

FWD Insurance Berhad (FWD Insurance) has taken a bold step toward enhancing financial literacy among young Malaysians by teaming up with Arus Academy to launch the Fun(d) for Life - University Edition (FFL Uni) programme. This ambitious initiative, backed by RM1.5 million in grants, is designed to equip 500 university students from across Malaysia with vital financial management skills, creating a pathway toward financial independence and long-term security.
A Comprehensive Three-Month Programme
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/845be5899563310ab969c69efe4242ede6cff88dacfe42790f411b645b0594e9" />
The FFL Uni programme runs over three months, blending education with practical experience to create a comprehensive financial literacy framework. It begins with an intensive three-day bootcamp focusing on essential financial topics such as setting goals, budgeting, and developing tailored financial plans for savings, investments, and protection.
Throughout the programme, participants receive ongoing coaching, personalised mentoring, and tools to monitor expenses, evaluate spending habits, and formulate actionable financial strategies.
Empowering Students Through Community Engagement
A standout feature of the programme is its community engagement component. Each participant will dedicate eight hours to community service, where they&rsquo;ll teach financial literacy principles to at least 20 peers, amplifying the programme&rsquo;s impact. By the end of the programme, students will also receive RM3,000 in the form of savings or fixed deposits, offering them both the knowledge and resources to establish positive financial habits and achieve long-term goals.
Supporting Malaysia&rsquo;s Financial Resilience
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0d2a8a44b877b1c66becb52701185d62a5a474b9c0738010585a63763d95cfda" /> (From left to right): Nor Rafidz Nazri, Director of Financial Inclusion Department, Bank Negara Malaysia; Mak See Sen, Chief Executive Officer, FWD Insurance; Alina Amir, CEO and Co-Founder, Arus Academy; and Khairul Anuar Che Yeop, Head of ESG &amp; Strategic Initiatives, FWD Insurance.
&ldquo;At FWD Insurance, we view financial literacy as a core life skill that everyone should have access to,&rdquo; said Mak See Sen, Chief Executive Officer of FWD Insurance. &ldquo;Through this programme, we&rsquo;re not only equipping young people with the knowledge they need but also giving them the tools to apply these skills in real life. By empowering individuals, we aim to foster a financially resilient society, contributing to Malaysia&rsquo;s economic progress.&rdquo;
Arus Academy&rsquo;s CEO and Co-Founder, Alina Amir, added: &ldquo;University students are at a critical stage in their lives where developing strong financial habits can have a lasting impact on their futures. The Fun(d) for Life - University Edition equips them with the skills and autonomy to make informed decisions about their careers, aspirations, and personal goals.&rdquo;
Expanding Impact Beyond 500 Participants
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2fe37584b04507f03ae76f071258bb368ea0d6fad221eb5028734ab065b30362" />
The impact of the FFL Uni programme is expected to extend well beyond its 500 direct participants. Through the required community service and additional outreach, it aims to benefit over 10,000 people across Malaysia.
This initiative aligns with FWD Insurance&rsquo;s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives to promote financial inclusion and uplift communities. It also builds on the success of a prior collaboration between Arus Academy and FWD Takaful Berhad, which reached over 47,000 primary and secondary school students in 2024 through interactive financial education initiatives, camps, and design-focused events.
The programme&rsquo;s innovative approach integrates Arus Academy&rsquo;s engaging teaching methods with FWD Insurance&rsquo;s commitment to creating an inclusive and financially literate society. By reaching university students, the FFL Uni programme aims to address the needs of youth at all stages of their educational journey, paving the way for a more financially secure and sustainable future.
Registration Now Open
The first cohort, comprising 50 students, will commence in February 2025. Interested students are encouraged to register at <a href="https://arus.cc/FFLUni-registration-of-interest-2025">https://arus.cc/FFLUni-registration-of-interest-2025</a>. For updates and further details, follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fundforlife_uni/">@fundforlife_uni on Instagram</a>.
By empowering university students with financial skills and practical tools, FWD Insurance and Arus Academy are setting the stage for a more resilient, inclusive, and economically empowered Malaysia. Through initiatives like this, the partnership is building a legacy of financial literacy and independence that will benefit generations to come.
Don&rsquo;t wait&mdash;take the first step toward a brighter financial future by registering today! We&rsquo;d love to hear your thoughts on this initiative&mdash;share them with us in the comments below.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Shaping a financially savvy generation: The Fun(d) for Life - University Edition launches this February, aiming to empower 500 students nationwide. 

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FWD Insurance & Arus Academy Roll Out RM1.5 Million Financial Literacy Programme For University Students

In December 2024, Australia made headlines by passing a bold new law banning children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X. This decision made Australia one of the strictest regulators of social media globally, driven by concerns about the platforms' negative effects on young people's mental health and well-being. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasised that the move was necessary to protect young Australians from the "real harm" posed by excessive social media use.
The law, called the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, is intended to set a global benchmark for tackling the power of technology and its influence on young users. By introducing strict age restrictions, the Australian government hoped to curb the damaging effects of social media, such as cyberbullying, reduced self-esteem, and exposure to harmful content.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3974/australia-passes-ban-of-social-media-for-children-under-16">Australia Passes Ban Of Social Media For Children Under 16</a>
Malaysia&rsquo;s Approach: A Balanced Strategy
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a5d02ee8fcd308d238de38a3ff0c2c00be0a3560080fbaa83d45931daf49b8fa" />
In contrast, Malaysia has chosen not to follow in Australia&rsquo;s footsteps. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil recently announced that the government has no immediate plans to impose similar age restrictions. Instead, Malaysia is opting for a more measured approach to managing online safety, particularly when it comes to children. Speaking at the Asia International Security Summit and Expo (AISSE) 2025, Fahmi explained, &ldquo;We do not intend to follow exactly what other countries are doing, but we will strike a balance by considering the socio-cultural background and the existing legal and regulatory landscape in our country.&rdquo;
While Australia has taken a hardline stance, Malaysia is focusing on addressing online safety issues through education, awareness campaigns, and collaborative efforts with global regulators. Fahmi highlighted that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is actively working to strengthen ties with international regulatory bodies to combat online crimes and ensure safer digital spaces for all users.
Strengthening Online Safety Measures
Malaysia&rsquo;s approach includes enhancing public awareness and updating existing legislation to better address the challenges of the digital age. Fahmi pointed out that while internet connectivity has become increasingly accessible across the country, it has also opened the door to risks such as online gambling and scams. &ldquo;Balancing access and safety is important, but users must also be educated on basic safety measures. This is what we will implement through our online safety awareness campaigns,&rdquo; he said.
One of the government&rsquo;s key initiatives is the Online Safety Campaign Roadshow, launched recently in Kelantan. This programme aims to educate Malaysians about the importance of online safety, ways to avoid scams and the legal obligations of social media and messaging service providers. The roadshow will also highlight amendments to the Multimedia and Communications Act 1988 and introduce the new Online Safety Bill, which will include provisions for creating a safer online environment for children.
Learning from Global Examples
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4ab24a1839fe3ac7b2e3138e25545112e10865cda02b8c323416a2d2189df1c0" />
Although Malaysia is not adopting Australia&rsquo;s strict age restrictions, it is studying international examples of online safety legislation. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching revealed that the government is reviewing not only Australia&rsquo;s policies but also France&rsquo;s regulations, which require parental consent for children under 15 to access social media. These global benchmarks are being examined to determine their suitability within Malaysia&rsquo;s unique socio-cultural and legal context.
Interestingly, Fahmi&rsquo;s recent statements mark a shift from his earlier stance. In the past, the minister called on social media platforms to enforce age restrictions strictly and even hinted at potential discussions with those who failed to comply. Furthermore, MCMC recently published a draft Code of Conduct for Internet Messaging and Social Media Service Providers, which includes a requirement for platforms to implement effective age verification measures. Although this draft is yet to be finalised, it signals the government&rsquo;s intention to hold service providers accountable for ensuring child safety online.
The Importance of Education and Collaboration
<img src="https://media.tenor.com/p4THTo31L1kAAAAM/well-on-the-upside-david-rose.gif" />
Rather than imposing outright bans, Malaysia&rsquo;s strategy focuses on education, collaboration, and regulatory improvements. Fahmi stressed the importance of educating users about online risks, stating, &ldquo;When we provide connectivity and bring the internet, we also find that some users tend to get involved in online gambling or fall victim to scams.&rdquo; He added that public awareness campaigns are crucial in equipping users with the knowledge to navigate the digital world safely.
At the same time, Malaysia is leveraging international partnerships to address the growing threat of cybercrime. Fahmi highlighted the need for a collective effort, noting that lessons from other countries&rsquo; regulatory measures can serve as valuable guidance for Malaysia&rsquo;s own policies.
Looking Ahead
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Malaysia&rsquo;s decision to take a more balanced approach to online safety reflects its commitment to protecting its citizens while respecting the country&rsquo;s unique cultural and legal environment. While Australia&rsquo;s hardline measures have sparked global debate, Malaysia&rsquo;s focus on education, awareness, and collaboration offers an alternative path to addressing the challenges posed by social media.
For now, the government&rsquo;s initiatives, such as the Online Safety Campaign Roadshow, aim to foster a safer and more informed online community. Whether this approach will be as effective as stricter regulatory measures remains to be seen, but it underscores Malaysia&rsquo;s dedication to ensuring a secure digital future for its citizens.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Fahmi confirms Malaysia will adopt a “balanced approach” instead of mirroring Australia’s strict measures.

Boycott Fallout: Berjaya Food Reports RM42 Million Loss Amidst Palestine-Israel Conflict

Directors anticipate a rebound in performance, but the ongoing conflict may pose challenges.

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