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KUALA LUMPUR: Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has advised parents to closely monitor their children’s use of digital devices and ensure technology is used wisely in the new year 2026.

In his New Year video message shared on the Ministry of Communications’ Facebook page, Fahmi also reminded the public to stay alert to emerging scam tactics.

As part of efforts to strengthen national cyber safety, 2026 will bring major regulatory changes. From Jan 1, all internet messaging and social media service providers with eight million or more users will be required to register as Application Service Providers Class [ASP(C)] Licence under the deeming provision of Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

The regulatory move aims to ensure large-scale platforms operate within a clear legal framework and shoulder explicit responsibility for user safety, particularly for children and families.

At the same time, the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA) will come into force on Jan 1, focusing on user protection and addressing cyber fraud, exploitation and impersonation, including threats arising from the misuse of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology.

Meanwhile, Fahmi, who is also the MADANI Government spokesperson, expressed hope that the new year would provide opportunities for Malaysians to continue improving themselves, their families and their communities, while contributing to national development.

“May 2026 see us remain healthy, the country on the right track, the ringgit strengthening and the economy becoming more robust, with more opportunities for the people to venture into fields that can uplift themselves, their families, society and the nation,” he said.