About Us - Content Forum

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE CONTENT FORUM

History

The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) was registered as a society under the Registrar of Societies in February 2001. Pursuant to Section 212 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA ‘98), the Content Forum is designated as the industry forum to oversee and promote self-regulation of content over the electronic networked medium.

The Founding Chairman of the Content Forum was Dato Prof Tony Lee who served for six years (2001-2007).

A dedicated website (www.cmcf.my) was launched on 20 March 2002. The official launch of the website was done on 21 October 2004, by Y.B Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik, the then Minister of Energy, Water and Communications Malaysia. This website was later replaced by a new website (www.contentforum.my) in conjunction with the Content Forum’s 20th anniversary and a rebranding exercise in September 2021.

The Content Forum

Aimed at facilitating self-regulation, which provides an additional layer of consumer protection that complements the legal framework, the Content Forum is committed to govern and promote the creation, distribution and consumption of electronic-networked content.

As a self-regulatory organization, the Content Forum comprises of key members of the communications and multimedia content industry, including advertisers, broadcasters, content creators/distributors, audiotext hosting services providers, internet service providers and civic groups. Pursuant to an amendment in the Constitution in 2024, the Content Forum has also opened a category of membership to Technology, Media and Digital Service Providers.

The Content Code

The Content Forum is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Code (“the Content Code”). The Content Code was prepared by the Content Forum and first registered with MCMC on 1st September 2004. It was revamped in 2022 to accommodate developments in technology and to adapt to societal needs.

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 heathy growth of a fast-evolving industry.

The Complaints Bureau

The Content Forum houses a Complaints Bureau that is empowered to address all complaints relating to content disseminated over electronic networks. The Complaints Bureau comprises of an appointed Chairman and a representative from each category of membership. In enforcing the Content Code, the Complaints Bureau has been addressing issues regarding content since the Content Code was registered in 2004.

The Complaints Bureau is empowered to investigate possible breaches of the Content Code, mediate disputes, adjudicate cases, publish orders and impose sanctions where necessary. The Complaints Bureau accepts complaints from industry players and the general public. Additionally, it plays an advisory role to any party that requires guidance on electronic content matters.

The Executive Office

The Content Forum’s Executive Office manages the day-to-day operations and provides value-added services in overseeing the coordination of the activities. It is headed by a CEO, supported by a full time Secretariat.

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