More than 65,000 pieces of scam and illegal online gambling content remain accessible in Malaysia despite takedown requests from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Between January 1, 2025 and August 31, 2026, the regulator submitted more than one million takedown requests to online platforms. A total of 935,416 pieces of content were removed, giving the platforms an overall compliance rate of 93%.
Gambling represented the largest category, accounting for 592,695 removals, while more than 227,486 pieces of scam-related content were taken down. However, 65,280 items remained online after MCMC requested their removal.
The figures were disclosed as Malaysia continues to strengthen its approach to online safety and platform accountability. Authorities are also confronting challenges involving prohibited products sold online, with sellers using alternative terminology to avoid detection.
The Government has called for platforms to take a more proactive approach rather than relying primarily on content removal after violations have already been identified.
Malaysia has introduced several measures targeting harmful online activity. Under the Online Safety Act 2025, sponsored advertisers on licensed social media platforms have been required to verify their identities since June 1. The requirement is intended to improve the traceability of advertisers promoting illegal gambling, financial scams and fraudulent investments.
The latest figures were presented during M360 ASEAN 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, where online safety and digital trust formed part of a broader discussion about regional digital development.
Malaysia is also supporting the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, with negotiations concluded in May. The agreement is expected to support further integration of the regional digital economy.
The Government has separately maintained that no new gambling licences or permits have been issued under the current administration, while enforcement efforts continue to target illegal and online gambling operations.
Malaysia has tightened rules for sponsored online advertisers
