SAN FRANCISCO: Malaysian media organisations can take the lead regarding advertising revenue sharing with global social media platforms, and the Communications and Digital Ministry stands ready to assist, says its Minister.
"I think this is something which media organisations can directly engage with these platforms (social media). We are prepared to assist.
"However, at this point in time, I do not foresee that we would follow the path of some of the other countries (that took legislative action),” Fahmi Fadzil told the Malaysian media covering the 30th APEC Economic Leaders Meeting here.
“That is why I have said before in Parliament even. For Malaysia, we won’t necessarily blindly copy or follow what other countries do exactly. We will find and strike a path that suits the specification and context of Malaysia itself.”
He said enacting the law would be the last resort, adding that Malaysia reserves that right.
"But, in all fairness, I think it is possible to discuss this with these organisations,” he added.
The minister said he had raised the issue of advertising expenditures during his recent engagement with social media giants such as TikTok and Google.
"TikTok, Meta, and Google (and other similar platforms) are important organisations to include in a discussion about some issues around advertising expenditure.
"I have conveyed to each organisation (TikTok, Google, Meta) that I would like to have a positive, constructive engagement with media organisations,” said Fahmi.
The minister said these social media platforms are ready and willing to discuss this issue.
Fahmi suggested setting aside a pool of funds to assist media organisations in their current digital transformation.
"Several countries like Taiwan have seen the setting up of funds to help media organisations undertake transformation, including seeking new ways of presentation and new sources of additional revenue,” he said.- Bernama
