Content Forum Commences Public Consultation on the Revamped Communications and Multimedia Content Code 2021

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Code ("Content Code") was first introduced and registered with MCMC on 1 September 2004. The main purpose of the Content Code is to outline procedures for self-regulation as it contains governing standards and best practices for content dissemination within the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia.

The Content Code is implemented and enforced by the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia ("Content Forum") which is the independent self-regulatory industry body registered under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission ("MCMC"). The Content Forum is designated by the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 ("CMA") to govern and oversee the creation, dissemination and consumption of content over the electronic networked medium, and comprises key members of the communications and multimedia content industry.

The Second Edition of the Content Code was released and registered with MCMC on 14 February 2020 ("Content Code 2020").

In 2021, the Content Code was revamped to address gaps caused by the advancement of technology, the internet and social media, and facilitate the self-regulation by consumers and industry players. The Revamped Content Code Draft ("Content Code 2021") is the result of the consultation with Content Forum members as well as relevant key stakeholders. Content Forum has recently initiated a nationwide Public Consultation exercise as the final step in the review of the Content Code 2021. This Public Consultation is meant to give everyone the opportunity to contributeto the new version of the Content Code, as it will continue to be a reference for the interpretation of offences under Section 211 and Section 233 of the CMA.

The consultation exercise runs from 24 September 2021 to 9 November 2021.

Singapore and Malaysia Announce Protocols for Court-to-Court Cooperation in Cross-Border Insolvency and Shipping

On 5 October 2021, the Supreme Court of Singapore and the Federal Court of Malaysia announced the implementation of Protocols on Court-to-Court communication and cooperation in Admiralty, Shipping and Cross-Border Insolvency matters ("Protocols"). The Protocols put in place a framework for cooperation and communication between the two Courts to facilitate the efficient and timely coordination and administration of prescribed types of cases.

In this Update, we highlight the key features of the Protocols and how they impact cross-border commercial disputes.