Confirmed During Anwar’s Meeting with Tiktok’s CEO, Chew Shou Zi in Lima, Peru
In a pivotal move to bolster online safety, social media giant TikTok has assured Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of its commitment to collaborate closely with Malaysia in addressing pressing issues such as cyberbullying and online scams.
This development was confirmed during Anwar’s meeting with TikTok’s CEO, Chew Shou Zi, amid his first official Latin American visit since taking office in November 2022.
The Prime Minister underscored the significance of this alliance as Malaysia ramps up efforts to regulate and safeguard its digital landscape.
“During our discussions, I raised critical concerns including the upcoming implementation of a regulatory framework set to licence social media and internet messaging services from January 1,” Anwar shared.
He reiterated that these regulations aim to curtail the rampant culture of defamation and digital toxicity seen across platforms like TikTok.
New Regulatory Frameworks on the Horizon
The Prime Minister also shed light on Malaysia’s broader plans to regulate its social media environment more rigorously.
He pointed to the new licencing framework as a decisive step towards creating a safer, more accountable digital space.
This initiative reflects a proactive approach to handling cyber threats that have become increasingly pervasive in the country.
TikTok, which has gained massive popularity among Malaysian users, confirmed plans to make substantial investments to support these efforts.
Anwar expressed optimism about this collaboration, noting that it could set a precedent for future partnerships with other tech companies looking to bolster safety and trust in online spaces.
Global Collaborations and Investment Promises
The meeting with TikTok took place against the backdrop of Anwar’s strategic mission to forge stronger ties with emerging economies and the Global South.
Speaking at a roundtable with business leaders from Malaysia and Peru, he advocated for a shift in focus toward a diversified range of international partnerships.
“It’s crucial to shift course slightly and enhance collaboration with the Global South, tapping into the vast new potentials and opportunities,” he said.
He noted that while the U.S. continues to be Malaysia’s top investor, significant collaborations with China have showcased Malaysia’s ability to adapt to evolving global dynamics.
The TikTok partnership is aligned with this broader vision, signalling Malaysia’s commitment to securing international collaborations that blend investment with impactful, localized outcomes.
ASEAN 2025 and Beyond
Anwar’s discussions with TikTok also touched on future strategic alignments, particularly as Malaysia prepares to chair ASEAN in 2025.
TikTok expressed its intent to support Malaysia’s leadership in this role, further solidifying its investment in the region’s digital and economic growth.
