Fahmi asks MCMC to clarify Meta’s response on WhatsApp issues
PUTRAJAYA, Sept 30 — Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil has asked the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to issue a statement clarifying Meta’s response to issues involving hacked and deactivated WhatsApp accounts.
However, he said he had yet to receive an update on discussions between MCMC and Meta on the matter.
“I have not had the opportunity to get an update on the outcome of the discussions. Meta had requested until 3 pm last Monday to submit its response to issues raised by MCMC concerning hacked and deactivated WhatsApp accounts.
“I will ask MCMC to issue a statement based on Meta’s response,” he told a press conference after the Cabinet meeting here today.
The media previously reported that MCMC had taken note of public concerns over WhatsApp accounts reportedly being hacked, blocked or rendered inaccessible.
The commission said it was reviewing the complaints received and had referred the cases to Meta for clarification and further action.
MCMC also stressed that account takeovers or hacking and account blocking were two separate issues.
It said hacked accounts could be misused by irresponsible parties for scams, spam or violations of WhatsApp’s terms of service, potentially resulting in the accounts being blocked by the platform.
On another development, Fahmi said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had instructed Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar to engage with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) alumni on ways to increase their involvement in government discussions.
The Madani Government spokesman said the move followed Anwar’s recent meeting with UiTM alumni, which brought together many experienced individuals, including those from the corporate sector.
“The Prime Minister has instructed the Chief Secretary to engage with UiTM alumni to discuss ways they can become more involved, particularly in discussions involving certain ministries for the national interest.
“During his meeting with UiTM alumni, many of them demonstrated extensive experience, including in the corporate sector, and expressed their willingness to contribute to discussions and joint efforts with the government,” he added.
