Content Code and Guidelines

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Content Code

Supplementary Guidelines

What is the Content Code?

The Content Code is the principal source for industry self-regulation as it contains governing standards and best practices for content dissemination within the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia. The main objective of the Content Code is to outline procedures of self-regulation that provides the platform for creativity, innovation and the healthy growth of a fast-evolving industry.

The Content Code demonstrates a commitment toward self-regulation by the industry in compliance with the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 98). It seeks to identify offensive and objectionable content while spelling out the obligations of content providers within the context of social values in this country. It also provides a guide for content consumers to practice self-regulation.

What’s in the Content Code?

Section 213 (2) CMA 98, lists the matters that maybe addressed by the Code, but are not limited to:

  • restrictions on the provision of unsuitable content;
  • methods of classifying content;
  • procedures for handling public complaints and for  reporting  information about complaints to the  Commission;
  • representation of Malaysian culture and national  identity;
  • public information and education regarding content  regulation and technologies for the end user control of  content and
  • other matters of concern to the community

Section 211 CMA 98 states that no content applications service provider shall provide content which is indecent, obscene, false, menacing, or offensive in character with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any person. The Content Code facilitates the interpretation of these offences.

The Content Code was registered with MCMC on 1st September 2004 and the most recently revamped version was registered on 30 May 2022.

Disclaimer: The Content Code is a public document whereby permission is granted for its use, distribution, and reproduction. However, the Content Code is not permitted to be modified, amended, or altered in any form whatsoever without the prior consent of the Content Forum. All rights associated with the Content Code are reserved and remain with the Content Forum.

Public Consultations

(CLOSED) Public Consultation: Content Code Review

Public consultation period: 17 September – 7 November 2025

The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) is inviting the public and industry players to participate in a nationwide consultation on the proposed revisions to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Code (Content Code), a document that serves as a key reference point for responsible and ethical content practices across broadcasting, online, and digital platforms. This is your chance to share your feedback on the evolving standards of ethical and responsible content in the digital age.

The proposed revisions address today’s fast-evolving digital challenges, including clearer legal alignment, safeguards for children, stronger rules for advertising, platform responsibilities, and new standards around Artificial Intelligence (AI) and inclusivity. These updates aim to raise accountability, improve transparency, and ensure the Code remains practical, accessible, and future-ready.

This review is essential to ensure the Content Code stays relevant and practical in today’s fast-changing digital world. By sharing your views, you’ll be helping us keep the Code meaningful and effective for everyone.

Townhall Session

During the consultation period, the Content Forum will also engage stakeholders directly through townhalls, roundtables, and dialogues. Interested organisations are invited to reach out to us at secretariat@contentforum.my to arrange sessions tailored to their communities or sectors.

 

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(CLOSED) Public Review: Disabilty-Inclusive Language Guidelines

Public review period: 3 September – 10 October 2025

The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum), together with persons-with-disabilities (PWD) and industry stakeholders, have developed a set of Disability-Inclusive Language Guidelines.  

These Guidelines were initiated in response to calls from media professionals for clearer guidance on communicating respectfully about persons with disabilities (PwD). 

The aim is to: 

  • Encourage equity, diversity, and respectful communication. 
  • Align with the Content Code, local laws and global standards. 
  • Support advertisers, broadcasters, creators, educators, and professionals in producing content that upholds dignity and inclusivity. 

Language shapes perceptions. Inclusive language removes barriers, challenges stereotypes, and reflects the values of a just society. 

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(CLOSED) Public Consultation: Guidelines for Reporting and Sharing Suicide-Related Content

Public consultation period: 28 January – 13 March 2025

The responsible reporting and sharing of suicide-related content play a crucial role in safeguarding public well-being. To address this, we have developed a set of guidelines to help content creators, media professionals, and the public navigate this sensitive issue while adhering to ethical standards and best practices.

To ensure these guidelines are comprehensive and effective, we conducted a public consultation to gather valuable feedback and insights. We are pleased to announce that the consultation period has now ended. We sincerely thank everyone who participated—your contributions are greatly appreciated and will help shape the final guidelines.

We are currently reviewing all submissions and look forward to sharing the public consultation report with you soon.

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(CLOSED) Public Consultation: Guidelines on the Marketing of Intoxicating Liquor

Public consultation period: 19 July – 19 August 2024

The revamped Content Code 2022 continues to ban intoxicating liquor advertisements on broadcast platforms. However, these advertisements continue to be offered on electronic media platforms based in Malaysia. As such, we have found the need to introduce new guidelines, to ensure such advertisements comply with existing laws and uphold public interest.

Together with industry players and experts, we have developed this comprehensive guide on how advertisers should market intoxicating liquor responsibly, following global best practices and adapted to local standards.

A public consultation exercise on this guide was conducted in order to gather valuable feedback and insights. We are pleased to announce that the consultation period has now ended. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated. Your contributions are greatly appreciated and will play a crucial role in shaping our next steps.

We are currently in the process of reviewing all submissions, and we look forward to sharing the public consultation report with you soon.

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