The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been instructed to halt its directive requiring all internet service providers (ISPs) in Malaysia to implement Domain Name System (DNS) redirection.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasised the importance of continued engagement sessions with all stakeholders. These sessions aim to gather views, suggestions, and recommendations to ensure a safer online environment for all Malaysians.
Fahmi highlighted the serious concerns surrounding cybercrime, including access to gambling, prostitution, and pornography websites.
He stressed the need for comprehensive solutions to tackle these issues, ensuring the safety of Malaysians, especially children and families.
However, he acknowledged the feedback from the engagement sessions and the public, leading to the decision to halt the DNS redirection implementation.
MCMC’s Chief Network Security Officer, Datuk Dr. Mohamed Sulaiman Sultan Suhaibuddeen, assured that the directive to redirect DNS traffic using third-party DNS servers back to their servers would not disrupt access to legitimate websites, according to Bernama.
The measure was intended to block access to websites violating Malaysian law, thereby protecting users from harmful online content.
“Websites that do not contain harmful content and have no issues can still be accessed as usual,” he explained. The directive aimed to safeguard users from dangerous online content while maintaining access to legitimate sites.
Initially, MCMC ordered all ISPs to implement public DNS redirection for businesses, enterprises, and governments by 30 September 2024.
But there were plenty of complaints from the netizens, accusing the government of implementing authoritarian/draconian practices.